Celtic's outgoing chief executive Peter Lawwell has broken his silence on the fire attack on his home, and thanked fans for their supportive comments.
Lawwell’s Thortonhall home was set ablaze in the early hours of Wednesday morning after cars outside the property were set on fire, with Lawwell and his family thankfully able to escape unharmed, but understandably left very shaken by the incident.
Police Scotland have confirmed they are treating the fire as ‘deliberate’ after a thug was caught on CCTV pouring flammable liquid over cars parked outside the property, and the Parkhead boss has issued a statement this afternoon revealing the toll the awful ordeal has taken on him and his loved ones.
In a statement on the official Celtic website, Lawwell wrote: "This has been a devastating attack on myself and my family, the effects of which will stay with us all for a long time.
“I am, of course, extremely relieved that everyone is safe. I would like to thank my wife and my family for their support and for the strength and courage they have shown during such a difficult time.
“Naturally my family has been deeply affected by these events. This is a hugely challenging time but we will make sure we stay strong and we will get through this together.
“I wanted to take this opportunity to offer my thanks to the Fire Service for their skill, bravery and professionalism in dealing with the fire, and Police Scotland, too, for their support and professionalism.
“I also thank the Celtic Board and Celtic staff for all the support they have given me. It has been fantastic and sincerely appreciated.
“As a family, we have received literally thousands of messages of support from Celtic fans and from people across the wider global football family. This has provided us with great comfort and we all offer our heartfelt thanks for the concern and support which people have shown.
“Clearly, I echo the words of Police Scotland and would ask that if anyone does have any relevant information which could help this investigation, to please come forward.”
