A landmark project to honour football legend Tommy Gemmell has begun, with a sod-cutting ceremony performed by North Lanarkshire Provost Kenneth Duffy and Tommy’s wife Mary.
The event marked the start of work on a permanent statue of the Craigneuk-born hero, famed for scoring in two European Cup finals for Celtic FC. The project, driven by the dedicated Tommy Gemmell Project Committee with support from the council’s Community Partnership Team, is estimated for completion early in 2026.
Provost Duffy commended the huge ongoing community efforts which have made this happen, he said: “It was a privilege to mark the start of this fitting tribute to a local and national sporting icon. This would not be possible without the outstanding work and dedication of the Tommy Gemmell Project Committee, and the support from our council’s Community Partnership Team. Together, they are ensuring Lisbon Lion Tommy’s incredible legacy will be remembered for generations to come.”
Mary Gemmell said: “I am so looking forward to seeing the statue completed. From the artist's impressions, I couldn't believe how much it looked like Tommy, it’s just wonderful. This is a truly special way to honour his memory in the community he loved. and I'm incredibly grateful to everyone who has made this possible."
The statue will serve as a permanent tribute to Gemmell’s storied career, and his enduring connection to Craigneuk.