Falkirk funeral procession confirmed for ex-Celtic and Stenhousemuir striker John Sludden

Falkirk district people will be given an opportunity to pay their respects to former Stenhousemuir striker John Sludden who died aged 56.
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John, who started his career as a youth player with Gairdoch United before signing for Celtic, passed away at Forth Valley Royal Hospital in Larbert on Friday, May 7.

Funeral directors Thomas Cuthell and Sons has confirmed details for a procession, arranged so locals can bid farewell to the well-known New Carron man.

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John shot to fame as a Scotland schoolboy during an international encounter with England, hitting a double along with Paul McStay during a 5-4 win over the Auld Enemy at Wembley in 1980.

John Sludden pictured when he took over as Camelon Juniors FC manager in 2014. Picture: Alan Murray.John Sludden pictured when he took over as Camelon Juniors FC manager in 2014. Picture: Alan Murray.
John Sludden pictured when he took over as Camelon Juniors FC manager in 2014. Picture: Alan Murray.

Although he didn’t make a first-team breakthrough at Celtic Park, John became a prolific goalscorer at St Johnstone, Airdrie, Ayr, Kilmarnock, East Fife, Clydebank and Clyde prior to moving to Ochilview in 1994.

The dad-of-two left Stenny to sign for Bo’ness United before hanging up his boots and moving into the dugout at Newton Park.

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He also worked as a youth coach with Celtic and managed Camelon Juniors from 2014 to 2016 before spending two years in charge of East Stirlingshire.

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John leaves behind wife Linda, sons Paul and Marc, daughter-in-law Sam, granddaughter Elsie and mum Mary.

Due to current coronavirus restrictions, his funeral will be held in private on Monday, May 17, however, the ceremony will be available to view by live stream from 10am via the Thomas Cuthell and Son website.

The cortege will then travel down Falkirk’s Grahams Road just before 11am and move onto Carron Road before joining Stenhouse Road and turning right at the end of Kirk Avenue.

Paying tribute, Stenny tweeted: “We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of former player, John Sludden

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“John played 23 times for The Warriors during the 1994-95 season, scoring 14 times before moving on to Bo’ness United.

“Our thoughts are with all of his friends and family at this time.”

Scotland captain and ex-Celtic youth player Andy Robertson wrote: “A fantastic coach and an even better man!

“My thoughts and prayers are with his family. Rest easy Sluddy.”

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Donations made to a fundraising page set up in John’s memory will support the work of Strathcarron Hospice.

Click here to donate.

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