I was shocked when informed of Ray's recent passing and in such tragic circumstances. I knew Ray for 25+ years as we worked together for Birmingham City Council. I would often sit in Ray's office to discuss work issues, news topics of the day but mainly our passion for the Baggies or speedway. Ray was a great work colleague.

However, Ray was very special to me as for many seasons he gave to me for free, a season ticket to watch the Baggies as a family member could not attend, Ray would never accept any money from me. I went to all these games with Ray and Eileen. We would meet at a social club on the Soho Road opposite Holyhead School; the club is now a temple. We have a few beers before going to the game and then return thereafter for a few more either on a high or on low depending on the result.

I also went to many away games with both Ray and Eileen and we certainly had some interesting experiences before or after games and of course either either enjoyed or not the game depending on the result.

We used to sit every season in the Rainbow stand, which has been rebuilt and now is the East stand. When I go to the first home again against Swansea on the 12 August 2023 I will have special thoughts and brilliant memories for both Ray and Eileen as I look over to the East stand from the Brummie Road stand a and give a final Boing Boing for Ray.

My condolences go to Eileen and all Ray's family. Brilliant memories Ray mate.

Roger Evans
Evans