Celtic Green Brigade fans face trial over 'IRA song' Published duration 17 December 2013

Seven members of the Green Brigade group of Celtic fans are to stand trial next year for allegedly singing a song in support of the IRA.

They are alleged to have behaved in a way that "is likely or would be likely to incite public disorder" by singing the Roll of Honour at Celtic Park.

The singing is said to have taken place at various home games at Celtic Park in July and August.

All of the men pleaded not guilty when they appeared at Glasgow Sheriff Court.

Paul Duke, 37, and Ross Gallagher, 29, from East Kilbride, Christopher Bateman, 28, from Irvine, David Gallacher, 22, from Glasgow, Sean Cowden, 21, from Rutherglen and Kieran Duffy, 18, from Coatbridge, are accused of singing the song at the Champions League qualifier match against Elfsborg on 31 July.

Mr Gallagher, Mr Bateman and Greg Robertson, 28, from Glasgow, are accused of singing the song on 3 August at a league game against Ross County.

Mr Robertson faces a further charge, with Mr Gallacher, of singing at a home game on 24 August against Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The men deny all the charges against them. A trial was set for next June.