Greatest fans in the world? You better believe it

Some weeks ago I received a painting of Neil Lennon in the post from US based artist, Joseph Gormley.  We put it onto eBay this week to get our launch our 2012 charity fundraising efforts.  As well as a couple of local charities we will again donate to the Martin Chambers Ecuador Trust and Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research.  After so many Celtic fans have been touched by three kids, Oscar, Niamh and Vanessa, this year we added The Neuroblastoma Alliance who do research work into the childhood cancer.

The auction raised an incredible £5000.  When I contacted the winning bidder and discussed some of the stories behind the beneficiaries I had to insist he took the painting, he was so affected he wanted to return it for another auction to raise more money.  Joseph Gormley was so inspired by the success of the auction he has already offered to paint other subjects for us and I have a jersey signed by the Seville team in the pipeline.

So, if you were one of those who bid an incredible amount but were pipped at the post (and there were a few in this category), there will be another chance soon.

Running this blog gives me the privilege of witnessing so many great works, most of which come with the request of anonymity.  It’s a real honour.

Well done and thank you.