Rangers pay tribute as legendary long-serving kit man Jimmy Bell dies at 69

RANGERS have confirmed the sad passing of legendary kit man Jimmy Bell at the age of 69.

Bell served the Ibrox club for more than 30 years and was a friend and confidant to numerous generations of players and staff.

Rangers say Bell will be “so sadly missed by everyone” at the club.

A former employee of Park’s of Hamilton, Bell initially drove the Rangers team buses to matches across the country, before moving on to his role as first-team head of kit.

Rangers chairman, Douglas Park, said: “As a club, we are absolutely devastated to learn of the loss of our colleague and more importantly, our dear friend, Jimmy Bell.

“Jimmy dedicated his life to Rangers Football Club. Having worked under managers from Graeme Souness through to Giovanni, he experienced some of the greatest days in our 150-year history. Of course, he was here during some of the lowest points, and showed selfless dedication, regardless of the challenge ahead of him.

“Jimmy’s work ethic was second to none. He dedicated countless hours to preparation for each training session and game.

“No job was too big or too small for him, and he thrived on working for his boyhood club. I spoke with Jimmy regularly, having known him from his time as a mechanic and bus driver at Park’s. He was excited for Thursday night’s game at Ibrox, particularly having experienced a European semi-final before, under Walter Smith.

“Rangers, and Scottish football as a whole, have lost a legend and a friend today. He was a family man, a devoted father, grandfather and husband. Jimmy will be sorely missed and I send our heartfelt condolences to the entire Bell family at this difficult time on behalf of Rangers Football Club.”

Rangers have asked all to respect the privacy of the Bell family at this difficult time and funeral arrangements will be communicated in due course.