For many people Christmas is a special and magical time of year. However, for many others it can be a challenging and lonely time.

This year Celtic FC Foundation recognise that support is needed more than ever and today hosted 150 elderly and socially isolated people at Celtic Park for a special Christmas event.

Thanks to continued support from the SPFL Trust, everyone attending sat down to a three-course Christmas dinner and enjoyed live entertainment.

Celtic FC Foundation colleagues ensured our elderly guests had plenty of companionship and fun throughout the day, taking time out to listen and share stories.

Guests today also welcomed Celtic star Carl Starfelt and former players Stephen McManus and Darren O’Dea, who not only joined in the festivities but also issued Celtic FC Foundation Winter Warmer packs to everyone attending.

The packs, funded by Celtic FC Foundatioin, include an electric heated throw, a food and essentials supermarket voucher, hot water bottle and some chocolate kindly donated by Cadbury.

Celtic defender Carl Starfelt said: “The work of Celtic FC Foundation is really important to us all and makes such a positive difference through some brilliant initiatives such as today’s lunch.

‘Obviously Christmas time can be difficult for so many but hopefully today’s event will give some really great, deserving people some important help and support and a time they can all enjoy.’

Celtic FC Foundation’s Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton said: “We’re delighted to be able to once again host Festive Friends here at Celtic Park.

“It’s always a fun day and we recognise the importance of days like these for elderly and isolated people living in our local communities.

“Hopefully, taking away a Winter Warmer pack will also provide some extra comfort at home for our very deserving guests.”