Cleator Moor Celtic

Cleator Moor Celtic Football Club 

Is a historic football club based in Cleator Moor, Cumbria, England. Founded in 1909 by Irish immigrants, the club is affectionately known as "The Celts" and has been a cornerstone of the local community for over a century. The club's rich history reflects its deep roots in the town's industrial and cultural heritage.littleireland.co.uk

Historical Background

The origins of Cleator Moor Celtic F.C. trace back to the early 20th century when Irish immigrants settled in the area, drawn by employment opportunities in the iron ore mining industry. In 1909, these immigrants established the football club, which quickly became an integral part of the community. The club joined the Egremont Divisional League for the 1909–10 season, competing against teams from neighboring towns. Their inaugural match took place on September 4, 1909, against Keekle, drawing a crowd of 400 spectators despite inclement weather .

One of the club's most notable achievements came during the 1950–51 season when Cleator Moor Celtic reached the first round of the FA Cup. Although they were defeated 5–0 by Tranmere Rovers in a match played at Workington, the event was a significant milestone, attracting a crowd of 16,000 and bringing national attention to the club .

Throughout its history, Cleator Moor Celtic has participated in various leagues, including the Wearside League and the North West Counties League. In the 2017–18 season, the club achieved its highest-ever placing in the Wearside League, finishing second and earning promotion to the North West Counties League Division One North. However, after five seasons, the club was relegated to the Premier Division of the West Lancashire League following the 2022–23 season .

Beyond its senior team, Cleator Moor Celtic has a thriving junior sector, with over 300 young players participating in various age groups. The club's commitment to youth development has been instrumental in nurturing local talent, some of whom have progressed to professional levels, including former Liverpool and England goalkeeper Scott Carson .whitehavennews.co.uk

In recent years, the club has also focused on sustainability initiatives. The "Greener than Green" project, a collaboration with local organizations and young club members, led to the installation of solar panels at the club's facilities. This initiative aimed to reduce energy costs and the club's carbon footprint, ensuring a more sustainable future for the community hub .cumbriacrack.com

Cleator Moor Celtic F.C.'s enduring presence and community involvement underscore its significance in the region, reflecting a legacy built on resilience, passion, and a deep connection to its roots.en.wikipedia.org