Paul Lambert Tribute Dinner
Date – 15th May 2005
Venue – Thistle Hotel, Glasgow

Over 900 supporters, colleagues, friends and family members packed the Glasgow Thistle hotel on Sunday 15th May to celebrate the glorious career of Celtic Team Captain, Paul Lambert. Lambert, capped 40 times for his country is one of an elite band of Scots who have a Champions League winners medal, decided to hang up his boots at the end of the 2005 season and concentrate on his new coaching career.

Superstar comedian Billy Connolly lead the tributes to Paul in an emotional night, looking back at the outstanding achievements of the popular player. Celtic fan Billy said of the evening ‘Paul is a great player and a great human being. It was an honour to be asked and I am delighted to attend.’

After the guests enjoyed a champagne reception and lavish three course meal, host Radio Clyde’s Peter Martin, interviewed players and managers past and present, including members of the Celtic football team, Martin O’Neill and Wim Jansen who praised Paul’s dedication and commitment to the club. Attributes which made him an admired and respected Captain with both fans and players alike. A video link also carried best wishes for the evening from former team mate Henrik Larson.

An auction hosted by Andy Cameron, and containing some of Paul’s best memorabilia from over the years, raised thousands of pounds for charity including Paul’s former school in Linwood which is now dedicated to children with learning difficulties and special needs. Three nominees in the Daily Record Sporting Heroes of the Future campaign will also benefit from the auction receiving assistance and funding in their quest to represent Scotland in their chosen sport.

The evening’s climax was heart felt rendition of ‘You’ll never walk alone’ by the entire audience to one of Celtics greatest players and Captains.