A seven-figure payout has been agreed for a lawsuit over claims of historical sexual abuse at Celtic Boys Club, a law firm has said.
Thompsons Solicitors is acting for around 30 former Celtic Boys Club players and said around 70 per cent of the cases have been settled by Celtic Plc, and the firm expects further settlements in the coming weeks.
The case relates to abuse at the youth club – which was not formally affiliated with Celtic FC – by convicted paedophiles James Torbett and Frank Cairney.
Laura Connor, partner at Thompsons Solicitors, said: ‘Our clients trusted us to fight for them on these difficult cases and ensure their voices were heard.
‘This litigation has been made far more complex and lengthy by the defender, while our clients have acted with resolute dignity throughout.
‘At long last they have achieved success and can take this compensation as confirmation that Celtic Boys Club was indeed inextricably linked to Celtic Football Club.’
A judge previously gave the go-ahead for the group legal action at Scotland’s highest civil court, the Court of Session in Edinburgh.
Lawyers acting for Celtic Plc had argued in court that the action should not be allowed to proceed, arguing the boys club was an entirely separate entity, but judge Lord Arthurson ruled the case could go ahead.
Celtic FC has been contacted for comment and has previously said it is ‘appalled by any form of historic abuse’.
Group proceedings are similar to US class action style actions and were brought into law in Scotland in 2020.
Celtic FC apologised for historic sexual abuse at Celtic Boys Club and said in a statement: ‘Celtic Football Club can confirm that a number of legal claims in the group proceedings against the club have been resolved. We are hopeful that settlement can be reached with the remaining group members shortly.
‘For some time, we have sought to work with the group members’ lawyers to reach a resolution. The club acknowledges the strength of the survivors of abuse who have come forward and hope that this resolution may help to bring them some closure.
‘Celtic Football Club is appalled by any form of historic abuse and has great sympathy for those who suffered abuse and for their families. The club is very sorry that these events took place at Celtic Boys Club.
‘The club takes this abuse extremely seriously because of the historic contacts between the two organisations.
‘The abuse of young people is an abhorrent crime which has unfortunately affected many areas of society. The club continues to work with Scottish football to make it a safe place for all young people.’