Long before the police began to investigate claims of child sex abuse at Celtic Boys Club more than one whistle-blower had attempted to alert Celtic FC to the conduct of some fellow coaches and officials.

For two decades, the Boys Club had provided a steady stream of gifted young footballers for Celtic, including Tommy Burns, George McCluskey and Roy Aitken. Yet, rather than act on their concerns, the whistle-blowers were marginalised until their continued presence became untenable.

This was at a time, more than 40 years ago, when it was very difficult to pursue criminal investigations around child sex abuse. Quite literally, it was a sin that dared not speak its name; nor was it ever spoken of. Young victims were advised not to take matters further for fear of shaming themselves or their families. Those few police investigations that did take place often foundered in a veil of silence.

Ex-Celtic youth coach Jim McCafferty admitted a series of child sex abuse crimes. Jim McCafferty was a coach and kit man for the Celtic youth team and also worked for Celtic Boys Club (Image: Universal News And Sport (Europe)) It’s why organisations such as Celtic FC, the Catholic Church and some community youth groups became attractive to paedophiles and abusers. The levels of trust invested in these organisations by families who gave their sons willingly into their care was absolute. As such, it was easy to exploit.

The announcement that Celtic have reached a settlement – amounting to a seven-figure sum........

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