In remembrance
Old Firm fans tour battlefields on bikes to honour clubs’ war dead
TWO Old Firm fans teamed up to cycle round the Somme battlefields to pay tribute to players from both clubs who died in World War I.
Celtic supporter Terry McCourt and his pal, Rangers fan Davie Coyle, rode 165 miles through France in an emotional pilgrimage to the fallen players.
They wore football tops emblazoned with the names of the tragic footballers and laid wreaths with Celtic and Rangers emblems at the Thiepval memorial.
Former paratrooper Terry, 59, said: “It was an unforgettable experience.
“We thought this would be a great way to pay respects to those players from 100 years ago who fought for their country and made the ultimate sacrifice.”
More than 50 contracted and former Celtic players fought in World War I, seven of whom died. William Angus was awarded the Victoria Cross for bravery in battle.
Dozens of Rangers players and former footballers from the club also served in the Great War.
Five were killed in action including Jimmy Speirs, David Murray and Alexander Barrie.
Ex-sergeant Terry served four tours of duty in Northern Ireland during 12 years in 2 Para, 2nd battalion, the Parachute Regiment.
Rangers fan Davie, who works at Glasgow School of Art, joined him on the three-day bike ride which went through Amiens and visited key Somme battlefield sites.
Terry added: “It was about paying our respects and showing that Celtic and Rangers may be rivals but these players fought and died together for their country.
“There is more that unites us than divides us.”
The trip also commemorated battalions of cycling soldiers who fought along the Western Front.
Terry said: “It was a great challenge. You find friends for life and get to pay your utmost respect to the fallen in the Great War.”
Footballers from across Scotland laid down their lives in World War I. C Company, 16th Royal Scots, McCrae’s battalion, included players from 75 amateur and professional clubs, including Hearts, Hibs, Dunfermline, Raith Rovers, Kinneil Ramblers and Ladybank Violet.
Players from teams including Aberdeen, Falkirk and Queens
Park also served.