The Old Firm

I expect it is the same in most large cities, although possibly not as blatant. It never ceases to amaze me how many of these establishments we have in Glasgow whose clientele consist of one half of the old firm (either Celtic or Rangers). The Rangers supporters would not be particularly welcome in any of the establishments at the top of the picture, while the same would apply to Celtic supporters contemplating dropping in to one of the hostelries at the bottom of the picture.

How many businesses in the current economic climate can afford to alienate potentially half their prospective customers? But it seems to work for them!

The new football season is about to kick off and the Rangers and Celtic rivalry will again come into a lot of people's lives. At its best it is exhilarating with great excitement, banter, friendly rivalry etc., and of course when they come to play one another the atmosphere is second to none.

People all over the world tune into it. The presence of Rangers and Celtic has been estimated to be worth £120 million to the Scottish economy.

However there is a dark side to it which thankfully is improving and we can only hope that this season brings further progress. Organisations working to eradicate this dark side include 'Bhoys Against Bigotry'; 'Follow with Pride'; 'Nil by Mouth'; 'Kick-out Bigotry'; 'Sense over Sectarianism'; and every bit as important - 'Show Racism the Red Card'. They deserve our support. (apologies if I've missed any important ones off the list).


Back to the football - I can hardly wait!