CELTIC supporters have been urged not to march to Hampden as part of a celebration ahead of the Scottish Cup Final against Aberdeen today.
The Evening Times understands that the supporters group The Green Brigade had planned to march to the national stadium to mark the achievements of the club’s first season under Brendan Rodgers.
Police Scotland, however, have said in their advice to supporters that they should not congregate together in public areas.
This comes in the wake of the Manchester terrorist attack which killed 22 people this week.
In a statement, the force said: “Supporters are asked to show consideration for the general public given the recent event in Manchester and refrain from demonstrating any behaviour which includes congregating in large numbers in crowded places such as major transport hubs, which could frighten members of the public that something has happened.”
Their warning comes after a planned bus parade to honour the Lisbon Lions was cancelled.
The Parkhead club were to mark the 50th anniversary of their European Cup triumph with an open-top bus tour before a charity match at Celtic Park involving former players on Sunday.
The procession, however, was cancelled “following the recent tragic events in Manchester, and further to liaison and discussion with Police Scotland”.
The Scottish champions have also urged fans not to gather outside their Parkhead ground if the team win the William Hill Scottish Cup Final against Aberdeen at Hampden on Saturday.
Up to 50,000 football supporters are expected to descend on Glasgow to get behind their respective teams as both clubs compete to get their hands on the famous silverware.
Enhanced security checks are in place and spectators may also see armed police present as the current UK security threat remains at critical
Superintendent Mark Hargreaves, Match Commander for the event, said: “The enhanced security operation at the stadium may include body and bag searches, which could potentially delay entry for a short time and so I would urge people to plan their travel and get to the Scottish Cup Final in plenty of time. Whilst I understand that some people may be inconvenienced by the increased security, public safety is our priority and I am sure everyone in Scotland will co-operate with us and support this.
He added: “There is no specific threat against Scotland, or the Scottish Cup Final, however, people should remain calm but vigilant and report anything suspicious to police.”
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