Rangers have posted a touching photograph of kitman Jimmy Bell with former boss Walter Smith, as tributes flood in for the late Ibrox figure, who has died aged 69.
Bell, from Wishaw, served at Ibrox for nearly 40 years, having taken over as kitman from George 'Doddie' Soutar. He previously was a bus driver and mechanic with Parks of Hamilton, and used to drive the team to games.
Eleven managers were in charge at Ibrox during Bell's time at the club, and he was a friend and confidant to many of them, as well as players.
Former star Ronald de Boer said: "With great sadness the news came to me that Jimmy Bell passed away. You will be missed, Jimmy. The best kitman in the world. RIP."
Ex-Rangers striker Marco Negri said: "Shocked and saddened to hear of the passing of the best kitman in the world. Legend and true Rangers man, RIP Jimmy."
Maurice Ross, who was latterly a coach at Motherwell, said: "A misunderstood man. Had the heart the size of a house.
"Behind the hard exterior was a warm and gentle soul. Loved his job and the Rangers. Undoubtedly the most prepared and thorough kit man to have walked the earth.
“Heartbreaking news. Love ya Jimmy.”
Jim White, a host on talkSPORT, said: "I'm very sad to hear this morning, myself.
"Jimmy was a friend of mine, a great fellow to be in his company. Our thoughts go to Jimmy Bell's family this morning.
"Jimmy served Rangers for over 30 years and had been a friend and a confidant to numerous generations of players and staff. As Rangers say this morning, he's going to be sadly missed by everybody at the club.
"A great friend of the players, great character. So many players will mention Jimmy Bell as soon as they talk about their time at Rangers."
Motherwell chief executive Alan Burrows wrote on Twitter: "I am saddened to hear the news about Jimmy.
“Spent a bit of time blethering with him when he was at Fir Park last week and he was in good form.
“He’s always been very tight with our kitman [Alan MacDonald], who is gutted. My thoughts are with his family, friends and colleagues at this sad time. RIP."
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