Northern Irish police have charged former Celtic youth coach Jim McCafferty with sexual activity with a child.

McCafferty, who currently resides in Belfast, joined Celtic in 1990 and lived in Glasgow throughout his time there.

He was arrested on Tuesday over offences committed in Northern Ireland after presenting himself at a police station in Belfast and is due to appear at Belfast Magistrates Court on Thursday.

McCafferty, told The Daily Record: “I understand it was wrong. I was wrong and I did wrong and I am sorry. I have remorse. I know if I’m found guilty I will have to serve time, and I’ve said to myself that’s what I’ll have to pay back for what I’ve done. I’m OK with that. I hope that will cleanse my soul.

“I’ve regretted it for years. It has haunted me and I’ve not had a good night’s sleep for a long time,” he added.

Det Supt Deirdre Bones, from the PSNI’s public protection branch, said: “A 71-year-old male has been arrested by detectives after presenting himself at a station in Belfast. He was arrested on suspicion of sexual offences against children in Northern Ireland. He is currently helping police with their inquiries.”

A spokesman said: “Police Scotland has received a report of non-recent sexual abuse and will commence inquiries to establish the full circumstances surrounding this matter.”

Before working with the youth team, McCafferty started his Celtic career as a scout before becoming the club’s kitman.

He also worked for several years with other Scottish football clubs, including Falkirk and Hibernian.