A statue of Celtic legend Tommy Gemmell in his hometown of Craigneuk is reportedly gathering serious momentum, with his family playing a key role in driving the campaign forward.

The campaign, led by close friend Martin McCrum, has raised over three-quarters of its £80,000 target.

Gemmell, a key player in Celtic’s historic European Cup triumph in 1967, is being remembered not just for his achievements on the pitch but for his contribution to the local community. His widow, Mary, has played a central role in promoting the project, which aims to leave a lasting legacy in Craigneuk.

The statue will be created by world-renowned sculptor Andy Edwards, who has previously crafted tributes to the Beatles, Sir Alex Ferguson, and Brian Clough. Any funds raised beyond the statue will be used to support local schools and initiatives in the area where Gemmell grew up.

The project has captured attention far beyond Lanarkshire, with support flooding in from famous names including actors Martin Compston and Tony Roper, as well as Celtic favourites John Hartson, James Forrest and Daizen Maeda.

Mary Gemmell said: (The Herald), “The statue is the main focus right now, but the idea behind it being a community project is that we want it to be so much more than a statue.

“ Tommy was so proud of where he came from and was such a believer in helping people however he could, he went to every charity event he could. So to have his legacy be helping the whole community would be special for such a special man.

“It just blows you away,” she added. “I keep phoning people up, expecting to bother them, but they’ve all been so supportive and asked what more they can do, it’s humbling. Everyone that’s involved with the project is amazing, Martin and the team especially too.

“When Tommy signed for Celtic at 16, he was still working hard as an apprentice electrician at Ravenscraig. He told me how he used to get the bus to training, fall asleep and wake up at the Barras before running back to Celtic Park to make it in time.

“He was such a hard worker, and it’s important to have that legacy shown in his home town. We’re planning on putting his ashes inside the statue too, it’s important he comes home.

“They were a team, trust me… and they genuinely were a band of friends. They were all so kind when Tommy passed, Jim Craig still phones me to this day to check in.”

“I’ve seen the designs, which are simply wonderful. Andy’s really gotten his likeness and frame and how he carried himself so well. He was bold and cavalier. Physically, he was tall, 6’2″, well-proportioned, and very upright.”

“His heritage is not just to Celtic fans, but also to Scottish fans. The pride that team must have brought to Scotland must have been amazing for all over, no matter what team they support. It’ll be so nice to have that memory honoured with the statue.”

The project has already seen a number of fundraising events, including a walk from Craigneuk to Celtic Park, where Mary was on hand to greet supporters at the finish line. She described it as “the funniest day” as participants celebrated the life of one of Celtic’s most iconic figures.

With the target edging closer, two major events have now been scheduled to boost the fundraising efforts: a dinner event with John Hartson at Dalziel Park Hotel on August 15, followed by a golf day on September 5.

The statue will serve as a permanent reminder of Tommy Gemmell’s contribution to Celtic, Scottish football and his local community. His legacy, built on both footballing glory and a commitment to helping others, will now be firmly rooted in the place he always called home.