The Newry Willie Maley Maley Memorial Committee have been working tirelessly to raise the necessary funds to erect a statue of Celtic’s longest serving manager over the last couple of years. With the help of Celtic fans across the world, their target was smashed and the statue has now been constructed and delivered to Maley’s hometown, where it sits covered for one more night.

Willie Maley Lapel badge

Tomorrow, 15 April 2023, the Willie Maley statue will be unveiled and celebrated in Newry, Co Down. Fans are invited to assemble at the arch in Mourneview at 3pm, where a plaque will be unveil a plaque, before Davy Hyland and Pat McGinn say a few words. From there, supporters will march, with the aid of some bands, past Sands Mill and towards Monaghan Street.

Frank McGarvey with the Scottish Cup 1985.

At 4.15pm Tommy Sheridan will deliver a speech, prior to a minute of applause for the late Frank McGarvey and local Celtic fans who have recently passed away. Pat McLoughlin will then speak and call upon former Celts Jackie McNamara, Joe Miller and Tommy Johnson to unveil the statue.

There will be photo opportunities at the statue for all in attendance, before those present are invited to adjourn to the Canal Court, whose doors open at 6.30pm. The running order at Canal Court is as follows:

7.15pm – Parcel of Rogue’s

9.15pm – A thank you from the Newry Willie Maley Memorial Committee

9.30pm – Chris Carney

11.30 – Shea Doolin

To read more about Willie Maley’s unmatched contribution to Celtic Football Club, click on the link below:

Willie Maley – The Man Who Made Celtic