Former Celtic coach remanded in custody in Belfast amid safety fears

A former Celtic FC youth coach accused of sexual activity with a child was remanded in custody on Thursday amid fears for his safety.

Jim McCafferty, (70), appeared before Belfast Magistrates’ Court charged with touching a boy under the age of 16.

The alleged offence was committed in the city sometime between 2011 and 2014.

McCafferty, a Scot with an address at Raby Street in south Belfast, was escorted into the dock on a Zimmer-type walking frame.

Dressed in a grey hooded sweatshirt, he was permitted to sit throughout the brief hearing. Asked if he understood the charge against him, the pensioner replied: “Yes I do.”

His solicitor confirmed no application for bail was being made. District Judge Liam McNally asked whether the court should still keep McCafferty in custody.

McCafferty’s solicitor said: “There would be a safety point.”

The judge then agreed to remand the defendant in custody to appear again by video-link on January 5th.

McCafferty, who previously lived in the Glasgow area, worked as a youth coach and kit man with Celtic more than 20 years ago. He was also involved with other Scottish clubs, including Falkirk and Hibs, before moving to Northern Ireland around seven years ago.

He was arrested on Tuesday after giving an interview to a national newspaper and then presenting himself at a police station in Belfast.