Celtic have paid a touching tribute to Thai Tims founder Paul Lennon after he died following a battle against an aggressive brain tumour. Paul was diagnosed with Grade 4 Glioblastoma (IDH-wildtype), with patients typically given a life expectancy of between 12 and 18 months. The family of the 60-year-old, who was receiving palliative care following a major brain surgery, announced his death on Thursday morning.
Celtic's tribute to Paul Lennon
A statement from the Scottish Premiership champions said: "Everyone at Celtic Football Club sends their prayers and deepest condolences to the family of Paul Lennon, who has passed away. Paul did such great work with the Good Child Foundation and Thai Tims, and we know he will be sadly missed by so many. May he rest in peace."
Writing on Paul's Facebook on Thursday, his family said: "Paul Lennon has departed on a journey to the next realm. May all the goodness he performed protect him and guide him to a peaceful destination. You will forever remain in our memories."
Good Child Foundation and Thai Tims
Paul and Pun started the Good Child Foundation in rural Thailand over 20 years ago after their son, Berni, was born with Down's Syndrome. Paul taught children English by using the songs that echo around Celtic Park in a bid to ensure those who had been excluded from mainstream education would be given opportunities.
Videos of them singing Hoops anthems attracted millions of views online, making the youngsters, who became affectionately known as the Thai Tims, a viral sensation. They even performed at Celtic Park and appeared on Sky TV's Soccer AM.
Since his diagnosis, the Celtic support has rallied around Paul and his family. Bangkok CSC donated thousands of pounds to bedridden Paul to fund a professional physical therapist while messages of support poured in from fans across the world.
Support from Celtic captain
Just last week, Hoops captain Callum McGregor wrote a heartfelt letter to Paul on behalf of Celtic urging him to keep fighting. It read in part: "We send our best regards and let you know that you are very much in our thoughts. We know that you are having a difficult time, but we hope you can find strength. We hope you can find moments of peace and comfort amidst the difficult days. Facing these challenges takes real courage and I know you will lean on the love and support around you during this time. We are all with you. With warmest wishes, Callum McGregor."
Legacy of Reamonn Gormley
Paul also worked tirelessly to keep the memory of murdered Blantyre teenager Reamonn Gormley alive. The teenager volunteered at the Good Child Foundation in Thailand during a gap year in 2010 but was stabbed to death in an attempted street robbery while walking home from the Parkville Hotel in his hometown the following year.
Paul formed a partnership with Blantyre Soccer Academy in his memory and organised a series of tributes involving the Thai Tims kids. The children recorded a special charity version of Just Can't Get Enough in his honour, helping raise money for the Good Child Foundation and knife crime charity Crimestoppers.
Paul also ensured the young Celtic fan's legacy would live on by overseeing the construction of the Reamonn Gormley Memorial Hall at the charity's school in Chanthaburi Province. The pavilion, painted in Celtic's famous green and white colours, was designed to provide a place where children can learn, perform music and take part in activities years after the Blantyre teen's visit inspired so many.
His efforts are supported by Blantyre Soccer Academy, who donate thousands of pounds for the foundation, raised during their annual Reamonn Gormley Memorial Soccer Festival and Sportsman's Dinner, held every May and June.
