John Hartson hosts star-studded charity ball

John Hartson, centre, joins BAFTA award-winning Morvern Callar actress Kathleen McDermott and Mrs Brown's Boys actor Gary Hollywood. Picture: SNS

CELTIC legend John Hartson hosted a star-studded ball in Glasgow last night to raise funds for his cancer charity.

The first John Hartson Foundation Ball, held in the city’s Thistle Hotel, marked five years since the 39-year-old’s life-threatening battle with testicular cancer.

Scots screen stars Gary Hollywood – who plays Dino in smash hit comedy Mrs Brown’s Boys – and BAFTA award-winning Morvern Callar actress Kathleen McDermott compered the sell-out gala.

Line of Duty star Martin Compston and Los Angeles-based Scots actor and producer Gianni Capaldi, whose films include action-packed dramas Hard Rush and Blood of Redemption, were among the celebrities attending.

Hartson said: “This means so much to me to see so many people turning out to support my foundation.

Just over five years ago I had my own cancer battle and I feel very blessed that I got through it.

“Many people don’t, and I feel privileged that thanks to the amazing work of the doctors and nurses who saved me, I was able to get through it and enjoy seeing my five children grow up.”