Digby Brown confirms legal action over Celtic Boys Club abuse claims

Following media reports we can confirm Digby Brown is investigating Celtic Football Club in relation to historic abuse allegations.

The case has been raised in the Court of Session and is linked to attacks allegedly perpetrated by Frank Cairney.

In 2023 Cairney, who is now nearly 90-years-old, was ruled medically unfit to stand trial however, after an examination of facts hearing, a sheriff ruled that he attacked multiple young players while on duty. 

Richard Pitts, Partner in the firm’s Non-Accidental Team, praised the courage of his client in stepping forwards.

He said: “Each survivor of abuse should be entitled to take as long as they need to come to terms with what happened and decide what they want to do next and after nearly 40 years our client is now ready to take his own step towards justice. 

“I can therefore confirm Digby Brown is now investigating allegations of historic abuse connected with Celtic Boys Club.

“No further details can be disclosed at this time but we will continue to provide full support as the legal action progresses.”

The legal action follows prior legal success against Celtic FC.

In 2019 Digby Brown settled a historic abuse claim against Celtic for attacks perpetrated by Jim McCafferty.

Since then dozens of other survivors have reportedly settled their own claims against the club for a combined total of more than £1million.

Digby Brown’s latest legal action against Celtic FC was reported in The Scottish Sun.