Celtic fans raise funds for Palestine

Two Palestinian charities have picked up an unexpected financial windfall with £45000 (52000 euros, $59000) raised by supporters of Scottish Champions Celtic it was revealed on Monday.

One of the historic club's supporters groups Green Brigade launched the fundraising effort initially to match an anticipated £15000 fine from European governing body UEFA for fans waving Palestinian flags at last week's Champions League qualifying first leg clash in Glasgow against Israeli side Hapoel Beersheba.

The money raised will be distributed to Medical Aid Palestine, who deliver health and medical care to those "worst affected by conflict, occupation and displacement"; and the Lajee Centre, a cultural and sports project for children in Aida refugee camp in Bethlehem.

The Green Brigade said the money for the Lajee centre would be put towards football kit and equipment so they can set up a team, to be called Aida Celtic and who will compete in the Bethlehem youth league.