Jimmy Bell dead as Rangers pay tribute to legendary kitman

Rangers have been plunged into mourning following the sudden death of the club’s long-serving kitman Jimmy Bell.

The Ibrox side confirmed in a statement that Bell, who was in the dug-out at Parkhead on Sunday, passed away through the night.

Bell had been a fixture at Rangers for almost four decades after succeeding George ‘Doddie’ Soutar.

Bell gained cult status among the Rangers supporters and was regarded as a key figure through the different managerial eras in his time.

Douglas Park said in a statement: "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.”

Former Gers star Ronald de Boer posted a