KIDS’ COACH ISARRESTED AT TRAINING

Man held over indecency accusations

A CHILDREN’S football club has been left in shock after a head coach was arrested at one of his own training sessions.

James Devine was taken away by police amid allegations he had sent graphic videos to a youngster.

The John Thomson Academy in Cardenden, Fife, has dozens of kids on its books. But married Devine was taken to one side and faced with accusations over his online activities.

A video on social media shows the 41-year-old with his head in his hands before officers led him away.

He was later charged with indecent communications and causing a child to look at a sexual image, both involving a youngster under 13.

He appeared yesterday in court in Dunfermline, where he made no plea or declaration. The case was continued for further examination, and Devine was bailed to a date yet to be confirmed.

A statement posted by the club on Facebook hours after his arrest read: “We are as shocked as everybody else.

“At this time, we’re unsure what to do but one thing for sure it’s nothing to do with the club. We are also so so sorry to whoever this has affected .”

The John Thomson Academy is named in honour of the Celtic keeper who died during an Old Firm clash in 1931 when his head accidentally collided with the knee of Rangers striker Sam English.

About 30,000 people attended his funeral in Cardenden, and his name is kept alive in the town.

Glaswegian Devine set up the club, which coaches local boys and girls from five to teenage years, last summer.

Celtic legend Frank McAvennie was guest of honour at the Christmas party last December.