Everton’s legendary kit man Jimmy Martin has announced his retirement.
Martin became the club’s first appointed figure to the role when invited to take up dressing room duties by Howard Kendall upon his return in 1990.
Prior to that elevation, he had been the Blues’ official coach driver at the height of their success during the mid-1980s under the late, great Kendall.
But after more than three decades working in the first-team fold at Goodison Park, Martin has taken the decision to bow out from official duty.
Former Everton midfielder turned ambassador Graham Stuart paid tribute to the 74-year-old following Thursday’s announcement.
He said: “Jimmy is an Everton legend, no question about.
“Finch Farm won’t be the same without him – it will certainly be quieter, that’s for sure!
“Nothing is ever too much trouble for Jimmy, and he’s been a great friend of mine since the first day I walked through the door at Bellefield.
“I love the man.”