A seven-figure settlement has been reached over a complaint alleging previous sexual abuse carried out by paedophiles James Torbett and Frank Cairney at Celtic Boys Club, according to a law firm.
In a major win for Thompsons Solicitors, representing over 30 former players, stated that about 70 percent of cases have been resolved by Celtic Plc, with additional settlements anticipated in the forthcoming weeks.
The horrific abuse was perpetrated by convicted paedophiles James Torbett and Frank Cairney at the youth club, which was not formally affiliated with Celtic FC.
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 at Scotland’s highest civil court, the Court of Session in Edinburgh, previously allowed the legal action to proceed despite opposition from Celtic Plc’s lawyers.
Celtic Plc’s legal team argued the boys club was a separate entity, but Judge Lord Arthurson ruled the case could go ahead.
Celtic FC has been contacted for comment but has previously said it is “appalled by any form of historic abuse”.
The case is being brought under group proceedings, a form of collective legal action introduced in Scotland in 2020, similar to US class-action lawsuits.
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