Former Celtic star Chris Sutton has paid tribute to the bravery of the parents of a five-year-old boy who was tragically killed walking home from school.

The 43-year-old TV pundit said he had a little boy the same age as Lennon Toland, who died after being hit by a van in Tollcross in Glasgow’s east end.

The former England striker said he could not comprehend the devastation that Lennon’s parents Leanne and Andrew, were feeling after the death of their son last month.

Sutton was speaking at a fundraising event in Lennon’s honour that was held yesterday to raise funds for Glasgow’s new children’s hospital.

Celtic legend Frank McAvennie was also there to show his support for the family of the little boy, who was a huge Celtic fan, and sign autographs for fans.

Chris said: “I’ve got a five-year-old myself.

“It’s unimaginable, what has happened. I just feel for Andrew and Leanne and their families. It’s all still really raw.

“This is such an important event and such a wonderful charity.”

Lennon had been picking up stones on the pavement with his dad when he was hit by a van on Dalness Street, while walking home from St Paul’s Primary school. The vehicle had mounted the pavement to use an unauthorised entry to a makeshift car park. Police enquiries are still continuing into the incident.

Lennon’s mum Leanne, who is expecting a baby girl, said: “I feel as if it was Lennon who has been keeping me strong today. I was struggling to keep it together.

“We still have a lot of questions. We just keep thinking, how did it happen, it doesn’t make sense. I think that’s how is doesn’t feel real.”

The fundraising event was organised by media students from Glasgow Clyde College including Steven McCabe who is a close friend of Lennon’s dad Andrew.

He said: “I grew up with Andrew. As soon as I heard about it, straight away I knew it was Lennon.

“The family are still in the grieving process but they are really grateful for all the support.

“Celtic have been amazing. That’s the hardest part, knowing how much Lennon would have loved this.”

Students were asked to wear green on the day, which included a raffle, with prizes donated by Celtic, and beat the goalie game.

Senior media lecturer, Fred Hannah, said: “The student fundraiser to help raise funds for such a good cause in Lennon’s memory is a wonderful thing, and it is a privilege and great honour for my HND Media and the HND Journalism classes to be involved.”