West Bromwich Albion fans have come together to pay tribute to supporter and club mascot Richard Eades, who has tragically passed away.

Richard, along with fellow fan Dave Challoner, made up the duo of Baggie Bird and Albi, who have entertained and supported the Baggies and their fans for more than 15 years.

Richard was an avid fan, who went to matches both home and away, and away from Albion was also a qualified referee and football coach.

He also ran the supporters’ club Boing FC.

The tragic news broke before the match kicked off between Albion and Everton at The Hawthorns this afternoon.

Richard was only in his early forties and leaves behind two young children.

The outpouring of tributes on social media only serves to prove just how popular a figure Richard was.

Show Player

Below is a just a flavour of those tributes, which include comments from ex-Albion defender Paul Robinson, former kitman Pat Frost and U23 coach Jimmy Shan.

Rest in peace, Richard.

Paul Robinson: So sad to just hear the news that Richard Eades #BaggieBird has sadly passed away my thoughts and prayers go out to his family at this difficult time

Jimmy Shan: God bless and may you rest in peace... I can’t believe the news, upset is a understatement! God rest your soul

Holly Davies: So sad to hear the tragic news of the passing of @Richard_Eades today. Honestly such a kind and lovely man beyond being a great referee. An absolute pleasure to have met and officiated with him! Thoughts are with his family and friends at this time

Sons of Albion: Terrible news about Richard eades one of our baggie birds and a all round decent bloke TLMS

Adam Seeley: Shocked and saddened by the news today. From meeting “Baggie Bird” as a young supporter to Albion based rants at various away games and at work as a colleague for a short time. Rest easy

Pat Frost: RIP Richard eades AKA Baggie bird....devastating news,it’s days like today results don’t mean a thing

The Albion Fanatics: Tragic news about one of our Baggie Birds @Richard_Eades who has sadly passed away. Thoughts go out to his family at this time #wba #albionfamily

John Wenham: Absolutely shocked. One of the good guys. You will be missed by all who crossed your path. Thoughts with your family and friends. RIP

Stuart Elwell: Completely shocked and saddened to hear of @Richard_Eades passing. Thoughts with his family at this time #rip #baggies

Matt Price : RIP @Richard_Eades great lad and family man. Dedicated football man true loss.

Nicola Waite: There are no words to express the shock I feel hearing about the loss of @Richard_Eades - as a ref he was fair, respected and always had a sense of humour! Everyone @DarloTown1874FC will miss him for sure.

Dave Lawrence: Devastating news today about @Richard_Eades, in complete shock. What a top man! One of the nicest guys around. Sleep easy mate...

John Bird: Absolutely shocked to here news about Richard Eades absolutely top guy macron, Ref, Baggie Bird #Rip

Richard Holmes: Devastating news. RIP @Richard_Eades. An absolute legend who has helped me out countless times. My thoughts are with your family, you will be sorely missed

Elaine Costigan: Devastating news Baggie Bird Richard Eades has sadly passed away this morning after a short illness thoughts are with his family too young !