Lurgan Bhoy Jay is ambassador for Celtic

The Glasgow club has announced Jay as an official ambassador for the Celtic FC Foundation for 2015/16.

A Celtic spokesman said: “The Lurgan Bhoy has experienced first-hand Celtic FC Foundation’s growing Ability Counts programme and joined participants as a team mascot for last December’s SPFL home encounter with St Mirren.

“In partnership with Down’s Syndrome Scotland, Celtic FC Foundation’s Ability Counts programme features weekly football coaching and dance elements designed to foster and promote inclusion, diversity and friendship between the children involved through a common goal and interest.

“Celtic FC Foundation’s priority is to focus on the four key themes of improving health, promoting equality, encouraging learning and tackling poverty and we have a strong track record of delivering successful community-based projects.

“In his role as official ambassador, Wee Jay will focus on promoting Celtic FC Foundation’s equality strand as well as acting as a champion and representative for children and young people with disabilities.”

Jay, 11, told Celtic’s website: “It’s going to be brilliant. I am going to work hard for the Foundation because I love Celtic.I’m going to make sure that I do all the Celtic fans proud.”

Celtic Chief Executive Peter Lawwell said: “The wonderful affinity between Jay and the Celtic support has been one of the truly inspiring stories of this season.

“I am sure he will be a wonderful ambassador for Celtic FC Foundation. I know everyone at the Club - and I am sure all our supporters - would like to wish him all the very best.”

Jay’s dad, Martin said: “Today is a very proud and emotional day for our family and we are honoured and humbled that Jay is an ambassador for Celtic FC Foundation. He really is a special Bhoy for a special club.”