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Daily Record
Daily Record
National
Kaitlin Easton

Applause for Devin Gordon held at Celtic V Hearts game in tribute to tragic schoolboy

Celtic and Hearts fans have paid tribute to tragic Scots schoolboy Devin Gordon who sadly died earlier this month after taking his own life.

Devin, from Bathgate, West Lothian, passed away on January 19 at just 13-years-old.

He was honoured by players and fans from both sides this evening during the Scottish Premiership clash at Tynecastle Stadium.

Players warmed up wearing FC United to Prevent Suicide shirts before kick-off in a poignant tribute to young Hearts fan Devin.

Both sets of players observe a minutes applause in support of young Hearts fan Devin Gordon (Ross Parker / SNS Group)

On the 13th minute of the match the action halted as the entire stadium applauded for one minute.

Pals of the youngster had hoped for a memorial applause following Devin's tragic death as Celtic and Hearts bosses later confirmed both teams would take part.

Photographs from the game show players and fans united as they clap in the schoolboys memory.

Keen footballer Devin, who played for the Bathgate Juniors club, was a big Jambos fan and his mum is also a much loved member of staff at Tynecastle.

The managers of both clubs paid tribute to Devin ahead of the game.

Robbie Neilson, Heart of Midlothian FC Manager, said: “We were all shocked and saddened to learn the devastating news about young Devin. Our thoughts are very much with his mum Jen, family and friends.

“We can all get better at talking and listening to each other. If you’re experiencing difficulties or know of someone who you believe may be, please reach out and speak.

Fans from both sides paid tribute to Devin (Rob Casey / SNS Group)

"One small conversation can make a huge difference to someone’s life.”

Celtic Manager Ange Postecoglou added: “The loss of Devin at such a young age in these circumstances is an absolute tragedy and the sincere thoughts and prayers of everyone at the Club are with Devin’s mum Jen and the wider family.

“Too often we are seeing people of all ages lost to suicide and while we understand that we all face very different moments and challenges in our lives we just want to encourage all people to think about having that conversation and using that support which can make such a difference.”

Kirstie Cusick, United to Prevent Suicide Social Movement Development Manager said: "Following the devastating news about Devin we send our deepest sympathies to his family and friends.

"To anyone who is experiencing difficulties, please reach out to talk whether it is a friend, family, colleague or a helpline.

Players warmed up wearing FC United to Prevent Suicide strips (Rob Casey / SNS Group)

"Talking and listening can help save lives, and we'd like to thank Heart of Midlothian and Celtic for coming together with the football community to help spread that message."

The following services offer confidential support from trained staff and volunteers.

  • Samaritans can be contacted for free 365 days a year by calling 116 123, or emailing jo@samaritans.org
  • Call 0800 83 85 87 to talk to Breathing Space or go to their website for more information about their webchat service. The service is open 24 hours at weekends (6pm Friday - 6am Monday) and 6pm to 2am on weekdays (Monday - Thursday).
  • Text “SHOUT” to 85258 to contact the Shout Crisis Text Line and text “YM” if you are under 19.

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