With travel restrictions put down by the Manchester authorities who have advised Celtic fans not to travel to the city for next week’s Uefa Champions League encounter unless they have tickets .

And with pubs being been asked to ensure all safety measures, including door staff, extra bar staff and plastic `glasses' are in place for the night of the game.
There are Mancunians who can distinguish the difference between the bhoys and their rivals Rangers who trashed their city after last years UEFA cup final and they are ready to roll out the red (and green) carpet

St Kentigern’s on Hart Road is hosting an all-day party before the game, on Tuesday, October 21, to give supporters time to get into good spirits before heading off to Old Trafford.

Celtic has a strong Irish following through its Catholic affiliations, and St Kentigern’s – with its own Irish connections – has plenty of supporters for the hoops.

Chris O’Connor, who is both a Man United and Celtic supporter, is organising the party.

He said: "We’re really looking forward to it. It’ll be good fun as the rivalry between the teams and the fans is friendly.

"Celtic has a special place in the city’s Irish

"We wanted to organise the party to welcome both sets of fans, and it’s sure to be a great Irish party and an ideal way to build up the big match."

The craic kicks off at 10am when fans will be treated to a full Irish breakfast. Throughout the day, food and entertainment will keep the party going - along with a drop or two of the black stuff.

London-Irish rock band The Bible Code Sundays will be on hand to get the fans into good voice, performing twice, at midday and 4pm. They have their own Celtic connections, having been taken by the club to Barcelona to play to the Glasgow fans prior to their match last season

The match between United and Celtic is expected to be good-natured, and police are not expecting the kind of clashes that took place when Glasgow’s other team, Rangers, played the UEFA Cup final here in May.

Admission for the event at St Kentigern’s is by advance ticket only, priced £10. They are available from the club, or by calling 0161 248 5200 or via www.oconnorpromotions.co.uk

http://www.manchesterirish.com/