Tommy Burns Unit opened at Beatson Institute

A unit in honour of Tommy Burns has been opened up at the Beatson Institute for Cancer Research in Glasgow.

The former Celtic player and manager died from skin cancer in 2008 but his memory and spirit lives on among the hoops support who flocked to Celtic Park following his death and highly emotional funeral.

A Trust Fund was set up with the backing of the Burns family with various fund raising exercises undertaken to raise awareness with the Tommy Burns Laboratory opened yesterday at the Beatson Institute.

Speaking at the launch of the Trust Tommy’s wife Rosemary said: “It is too late for Thomas but it may not be too late for others. He would be humbled and honoured to have a laboratory named after him. I would encourage people to donate as much as they can to the appeal.”

A message posted by the Tommy Burns Skin Cancer Trust on their facebook page said: “Had a fantastic day visiting the Tommy Burns Lab and all the absolute heroes that work there. So encouraging to see the unbelievable progress that is being made. Thank you again to everyone who donated to the Beatson Pebble and the Text For Tommy appeal. Every penny is very much appreciated.”

Football fans around the world rallied to that call with numerous fund raising events staged, many involving team-mates that had played with Tommy during his 15 years at Celtic before he moved on to Kilmarnock.

As well as playing for Celtic TB managed the club from 1994-1997 before returning as head of youth development and was appointed first team coach by Gordon Strachan.