Rangers kit man Jimmy Bell dies aged 57 as club pay tribute to ‘legend and friend’

Rangers have paid tribute to their legendary kit man Jimmy Bell after his death aged 57. 

Bell was a cult hero among fans and part of the furniture of his boyhood club, leaving them ‘devastated’ by his passing on Monday night.

A club statement read: ‘Rangers Football Club are today devastated to announce the death of our much-loved, legendary kit man, Jimmy Bell. Jimmy, who has served the club for over 30 years and been a friend and confidant to numerous generations of players and staff, will be so sadly missed by everyone. 

Bell, pictured here with Ally McCoist in the dugout, was a part of the furniture at Rangers

Bell, pictured here with Paul Gascoigne at a charity game in March, rubbed shoulders with some legendary players and was a confidant to many of them 

‘A former employee of Parks’ of Hamilton, Jimmy initially drove the Rangers team buses to matches across the country, before moving on to his current role as First Team Head of Kit.’

Rangers Chairman, Douglas Park, added: ‘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 Scottish Premiership win with Walter Smith and David Lavery in 2005

‘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’ Barry Ferguson jumps on Bell’s back after the Cup final win against Celtic in 2002