Rangers announce death of 'much loved, legendary' kit man Jimmy Bell

Rangers have announced the death of ‘much loved, legendary’ kit man Jimmy Bell.

Bell, who was 69, had served the club for over 30 years, was described in a statement from the club as a ‘friend and confidant to numerous generations of players and staff’.

Rangers Football Club are today devastated to announce the death of our much-loved, legendary kit man, Jimmy Bell.https://t.co/x80xuLBw5x pic.twitter.com/VNsUUQtv7o

— Rangers Football Club (@RangersFC) May 3, 2022

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.”

Bell celebrates the 2011 title win with Walter Smith and club masseur David Lavery (Pic: SNS Group)

Giovanni van Bronckhorst celebrates with Jimmy Bell after Rangers’ win against Celtic at Hampden last month (Pic: Craig Williamson / SNS Group)

A former employee of Parks’ of Hamilton, Bell started his career at Ibrox by driving team buses to matches across the county, before moving on to his current role as First Team Head of Kit.

Park added: “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.”