Lawwell thanks fans for support after home targeted in fire

Peter Lawwell has thanked Celtic fans for their messages of support following an explosion that left part of his family home badly damaged.

The outgoing chief executive also thanked the police and fire service for their professionalism in dealing with the “devastating attack” that took place in South Lanarkshire’s Thortonhall area in the early hours of Wednesday morning.

Significant damage was caused to the garage of the property with three cars destroyed.

Police say the cars were doused in fuel before being set alight.

Fire: The incident happened during the early hours of Wednesday. Credit Media Now

Lawwell, who has been Celtic chief for 14 years, says his family have been left “deeply affected” by the incident.

In a statement released through the club, he said: “This has been a devastating attack on myself and my family, the effects of which will stay with us all for a long time.

“I am, of course, extremely relieved that everyone is safe. I would like to thank my wife and my family for their support and for the strength and courage they have shown during such a difficult time.

“Naturally my family has been deeply affected by these events. This is a hugely challenging time but we will make sure we stay strong and we will get through this together.

“I wanted to take this opportunity to offer my thanks to the fire service for their skill, bravery and professionalism in dealing with the fire, and Police Scotland too, for their support and professionalism.

“I also thank the Celtic board and Celtic staff for all the support they have given me. It has been fantastic and sincerely appreciated.

“As a family, we have received literally thousands of messages of support from Celtic fans and from people across the wider global football family. This has provided us with great comfort and we all offer our heartfelt thanks for the concern and support which people have shown.

“Clearly, I echo the words of Police Scotland and would ask that if anyone does have any relevant information which could help this investigation, to please come forward.”

Investigation: Police are appealing for anyone with information to get in touch. STV News

Eight fire engines were sent to the village, when the alarm was raised just after 1am.

Firefighters extinguished the blaze but some remained at the scene up to six hours later.

Detectives are treating the fire as deliberate after CCTV showed a man pouring accelerant onto the vehicles which were parked in the driveway of the home.

Police have released a description of the suspect. He is thought to be a male of slim build and around 5ft 10in tall. At the time of the incident he is described as wearing black joggers, a black hooded jumper, black trainers and a face mask.

A silver or grey hatchback car was also seen near to the house at the time of the fire.

Detective inspector Susie Cairns said: “This was a completely reckless act which destroyed three cars and caused significant damage to the property’s garage.

“The consequences could have been so much worse but thankfully nobody was injured during this incident.

“I am appealing to anyone who was in the area at the time that saw a man or car matching this description or saw any unusual activity to please come forward.

“If you have personal CCTV or a dashcam, please check back and see if there is any footage that could assist our investigation. No matter how small or insignificant you think it may be, please get in touch.”