Cops and council chiefs ‘ready’ for Celtic title party and aim to avoid last year’s mayhem

COPS and council leaders say they are ready for Celtic fans’ cover party in the city center – and want to avoid last year’s chaos.

Fans were urged to gather in Glasgow’s Merchant City to celebrate their team lifting the Scottish Premiership Cup.

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Thousands are expected after Celtic’s midday game against Aberdeen at Parkhead.

But after anti-social behavior, public drinking and vandalism marred the party last year, concerns have been raised.

A City Council spokesman said: “We are aware of the likelihood of fans congregating downtown.

“We have worked with Police Scotland to ensure proper arrangements are in place.

“Additional resources are being deployed to deal with any waste build-up and we will be monitoring the situation closely.

“Fans have the right to enjoy the success of their club, but we urge everyone attending the celebrations to respect those around them and be considerate of others.”

The fan groups’ social media pages “encourage all fans” to gather at Glasgow Cross with “flags, banners, bouncy castles and lots of noise”.

Last year’s celebration saw six arrests, including for assault and vandalism.

Four other people received fines for unacceptable behavior.

Police launched an investigation after the windows of the 1930s Mercat Cross building were smashed.

Alcohol bottles, cans and plastic bags were also left scattered around the area.

Police said there had been no serious incidents but reported “unacceptable” antisocial behavior and “outbreaks of minor disturbances”.

A spokesman said: “We are working with partners and have an adequate policing plan in place to ensure public safety and minimize disruption to the public.”

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