CELTIC is to become the first football club in Britain to provide free sanitary products to female fans.

Three female fans launched a petition and lobbied Hoops officials to begin providing the service, with one of the trio, Erin Slaven, announcing yesterday that their campaign had been a success.

“Surprise! We did it,” she tweeted. “After an eventful campaign, lots of research and co-operation with Celtic — sanitary products will be free in Celtic Park from next season. Thanks so much to everybody who helped us! Leading by example, the Celtic Way!”

Following the campaign by Slaven and friends Orlaith Duffy and Mikaela McKinlay, sanitary products will be available free in Celtic Park from the start of August on a trial basis, with plans for permanent facilities in December.

Labour MSP and campaign supporter Monica Lennon was quick to offer her congratulations.

“This is a brilliant victory for the activists who have been campaigning to secure free access to sanitary products at Celtic Park. After discussions with fans, I’m delighted that Celtic have taken this progressive step to become the first football club in the UK to provide free sanitary products. 

“Menstruation should never be a barrier for women participating in football or supporting their team. As part of my ongoing campaign to tackle period poverty, I’m meeting the Scottish FA next month regarding its policies on menstruation for all football clubs in Scotland. 

“Congratulations to Celtic and the campaigners who have fought for this positive step. I look forward to other football clubs and businesses across Scotland following their lead.”