All cash collected has already been distributed to those who need it most

Celtic FC Foundation has raised £240,000 through its 2018 Christmas appeal, making it the most successful to date.

The charity said this has been a massive team effort and is due to the “collective and magnificent generosity of so many people including worldwide supporters, the club, the manager, players, directors, trustees, partners, sponsors and funders.”

All cash collected has already been distributed to those who need it most, including providing assistance to 466 families who are seriously struggling this festive period.

Santa will pay a visit to those homes on Christmas Eve.

Also helped were 50 local pensioners through the provision of supermarket vouchers.

In addition, donations have been made to 20 organisations which support children, the homeless, those living in refuge, refugees and those facing other challenges primarily in Glasgow and the west but also in Belfast, Dublin, London and Ottawa.

Three Christmas parties at Celtic Park were also held for 788 local children, including gifts, with the latter two funded by private donors.

As well as financial donations, the foundation also received and passed on over 650 brand new toys and gifts.

Celtic chief executive Peter Lawwell said: "Once again, I would like to thank everyone who has made this year’s Christmas appeal such an overwhelming success. A commitment to a strong social and charitable dimension has defined Celtic ever since its formation and we are delighted today to continue to honour these origins by doing more than ever in offering assistance and support to those in need.

"It is very important at this time of year in particular to remember and care for those who are in need of some help, and we are delighted that through this appeal we are able to offer support some very deserving people."

Tony Hamilton, Celtic FC Foundation chief executive, added: “I sincerely hope that everyone who contributed money, time or goods to this year’s appeal are enormously proud of their efforts.

“This generosity of spirit has changed the game completely for thousands of people in some of our poorest communities and it would not have been possible without commitment and support. Thank you for making dreams come true this Christmas and thank you for delivering the gift of hope to so many people. Have a very happy and peaceful Christmas.”

A more detailed overview of the 2018 Christmas Appeal can be found here.