Celtic raise mega sum for charity as Chris Sutton joins bumper Big Apple fundraiser

The Hoops hero was in attendance as a huge total was raised for the Parkhead club's charitable foundation

More than $400,000 was raised for Celtic's charity foundation at the club's annual New York Gala.

Hoops legend, and Record Sport columnist, Chris Sutton was the special guest at the event - as he regaled attendees with stories from his glorious stint at Parkhead. And stressed how important his time in Glasgow had been for him and his family, whilst he posted "Brilliant few days in New York supporting ⁦who do so much brilliant work" on social media following the event.

Sutton bagged 86 goals in 199 games during his spell at Parkhead, helping the club to four SPL titles, three Scottish Cups and the final of the UEFA Cup. Supporters also got the chance to enjoy music from acclaimed Tenor and star of the Metropolitan Opera, Barry Banks and folk singer Liam McGrandles.

Michael Nicholson, Celtic’s Chief Executive and Foundation Trustee, added: “Everyone at the Club is incredibly grateful to those involved in making this year’s New York Gala such a success. It was a wonderful evening in the best of company, celebrating all that is special and unique about our club, through the work of Celtic FC Foundation.

'The incredible sum raised will make a significant difference to the vital work of the Foundation in the USA, in Glasgow and in Ireland.

“I would like to thank Connie and Howard Boville and their fellow Committee members for being the driving force behind an outstanding 2025 New York Gala. It’s fantastic that the date for 2026 is already in the calendar (Thursday, March 26) and I have every faith that, yet again, it will build on the huge success achieved in this and previous years.”

Celtic Foundation Chief Executive, Tony Hamilton, commented: “Once again, the Gala Dinner Committee – brilliantly led by Connie and Howard – have done a remarkable job and we would not be doing this without that group’s hard work. We are so grateful for their support.

“The response from a host of individuals and organisations across the board who bought tables or places has been wonderful, and I was also delighted to see members of so many Celtic Supporters’ Clubs in attendance."

Gala Committee Chairs, Connie and Howard Boville said: “It’s been an absolute honour for us as a family to take on the mantle from the outstanding Paul Geaney and chair the committee this year.

"Our fellow members have displayed exceptional passion and dedication and we are incredibly grateful for their efforts.

“It has been a privilege to work hand in hand with the team at the Foundation to deliver this wonderful event. The net fundraising total in excess of $400K is utterly magnificent, humbling and overwhelming.

"The generosity and compassion demonstrated by every single individual and organisation who attended the Gala, together with those who donated prizes or gifts, is what made this night so special.

“The subsequent impact on the Foundation’s delivery in all three locations and, in turn, those vulnerable children, young people and adults they support cannot be underestimated. We look forward to many more to come.”