THE Old Firm joined forces to kick-start the new Billy McNeill Fund, the first charity initiative of its kind that will support former players affected by dementia.

Former Rangers boss Walter Smith teamed up with Celtic legend Frank McAvennie and Liz McNeilk, widow of the Celtic legend for the official launch at Parkhead.

They were joined by Dougie McCluskey of the charity, Battle Against Dementia, which is overseeing the fund, that will provide financial aid and therapeutic supports to ex-players affected by the disease.

Read more: Billy McNeill Fund to be launched for ex-players battling dementia 

Billy's daughter Susan said: "My dad was quite a humble man so for this to be part of his legacy, he would have loved it."

Glasgow Times:

Water Smith added: "I was asked by Billy's family to get involved and I was delighted to help. The fund will really put dementia in the spotlight."

Frank McAvennie, joked that his former Celtic boss would have been "pleased he was on time" for today's launch.

He said: "It's great to be part of the event. I've been an ambassador for Dougie's charity for some time. Dementia it's a terrible illness.

Glasgow Times:

"It's always good to be back at Parkhead. I still go to the games, it's the only time my wife gets a day out."

Read more: Wife of former Dunfermline Athletic player 'convinced' headers caused his dementia 

The Billy McNeill Fund will be launched on May 29 at a charity event backed by names in Scottish football, past and present and music and TV personalities.

Celtic and Liverpool legend Kenny Dalglish, Neil Lennon, Ally McCoist, Walter Smith and Ian Durrant have all given their backing to the event, which will include a celebrity golf tournament and charity ball at Mar Hall in Bishopton.

Tickets for the event are available here