Former Blackpool and Blackburn Rovers figure dies aged 76
Former Blackpool coach Tony Parkes has died at the age of 76.
Blackburn Rovers have announced the death of former Blackpool coach Tony Parkes.
The Sheffield-born midfielder has passed away at the age of 76, having battled Alzheimer's throughout the final years of his life.
After starting his playing career with Buxton, Parkes made the move to Ewood Park in 1970 - and represented Rovers on the pitch for 12 years.
Following his retirement, he remained with the Lancashire outfit in a coaching capacity for over two decades, and stepped in as caretaker manager on six occasions.
In a statement confirming the sad news, the Championship club wrote: “Blackburn Rovers are devastated to learn of the passing of Tony Parkes.
“A true club legend, often referred to as ‘Mr Blackburn Rovers’, Tony passed away last night at the age of 76.
“Everyone at the club sends their deepest heartfelt condolences to Tony’s daughter Natalie and all his family and friends at this incredibly sad time.
“A special tribute will be held to celebrate Tony’s life and his outstanding contribution to the club’s history at our final home game of the season against Leicester City on Saturday May 2nd.”
In 2005, Parkes joined Blackpool as part of Simon Grayson’s backroom staff, and helped the Seasiders to promotion via the League One play-offs in 2007.
Current coach Steve Thompson was also part of the set up at Bloomfield Road during that period, and was full of praise for his former colleague in an interview last year, stating: “He was great for me and Simon to learn off with his experience. He wasn’t a man of many words but when he talked, he commanded your respect.”
Parkes acted as caretaker boss on the Fylde Coast during the 2008/09 campaign before departing the club during the following summer.
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