Tributes pour in for West Brom match-day mascot after sudden death
An Albion fan who has been one of the Baggie Bird mascots at The Hawthorns for nearly 20 years has tragically died suddenly of a suspected heart attack.
Father-of-two Richard Eades, who was just 42 years old, is believed to have suffered the heart attack early on Boxing Day morning before he was due to dress up as Albi for the home clash with Everton.
Eades began his affiliation with West Brom at the age of 14 - working with ground staff at The Hawthorns, and then the coaching staff, before taking on several roles as Albion mascots.
He was also well known for playing, coaching and managing Boing FC, West Brom's supporters' team - and refereed for the Birmingham County FA.
The Baggies will pay tribute to Eades ahead of the upcoming game against Arsenal, which takes place on New Year's Eve.
He leaves behind two children, Lily-Mae, aged eight, and Archie aged three, along with his fiance - with tributes pouring in for the Baggies-mad dad.
Former Albion full-back and current Birmingham City coach Paul Robinson said: "So sad to just hear the news that Richard Eades has sadly passed away. my thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time."
Former kit-man Pat Frost said: "Devastating news, it's days like today results don't mean a thing."
Albion under-23 boss James Shan said: "God bless and may you rest in peace. I can’t believe the news, upset is a understatement. God rest your soul."
Eades used to run Boing FC, the Albion supporters football team, and was best man at Dave Challenor's wedding, the man who dresses up as Baggie Bird each week.
