Funeral of Celtic legend Billy McNeill to take place

The funeral of legendary Celtic captain Billy McNeill, who died last month at the age of 79, will be held later today.

It is being held at St Aloysious in Glasgow City Centre, being led by Archbishop Tartaglia and is due to start at 11.30am. The service will be broadcast live on a large screen on Celtic Way.

Hundreds of fans are expected to line the streets to say goodbye to the first British man who lifted the European Cup.

After the service the cortege will stop at Celtic Park around 1.30pm for fans.

Parking is limited but is available in the Clyde Gateway, the Lisbon Lions 1 (matchday car park) & at the Emirates.

There is a number of road closures in place around the city including.

Rose Street itself will be closed between Renfrew Street and Buccleuch Street from 10am.

Parts of Hill Street (between Cambridge Street and Scott Street), Dalhousie Street (between Renfrew Street and Buccleuch Street), and Renfrew Street (between Dalhousie Street and Rose Street) will also be shut off.

The one way system on Garnet Street between Sauchiehall Street and Renfrew Street will also be removed.

All closures and disruption are expected to be complete by 2pm.

A statement released by Billy's family through the club says: "We would like to say thank you for all the kind messages we have received over the last week. They have cheered us up tremendously at this difficult time. The love and affection shown towards our father is nothing short of amazing and is something we will never forget.

"The displays and tributes played before last Saturday’s match reiterated what a special club Celtic is and how big a part of our father’s life it was. Then for our No.5 to score the winning goal was truly magical.

"We would also like to thank all the clubs who marked his passing with a minute’s applause. We really appreciate all the respect shown towards our father.

"Our father always made time for the fans and knew how important they are so we would like to send an open invite to help us pay our respects to him. His body will be taken into St Aloysius Church on Thursday evening at 6:30pm with the church staying open for a short while after the service.

"For those wishing to attend the funeral there will be limited spaces at the church so please arrive early.

"For those who are unable to attend the church, the service will also be broadcast live at Celtic Park, where the funeral cortège will also arrive approximately at 1:30pm.

"Thereafter there will be a private burial."