Son of Jimmy Armfield praises Blackpool fans behind new supporters' bar after officially opening venue named in his Dad's honour

The Armfield Club, based at the old Bar 1 pub on Bloomfield Road, just a stone’s throw away from the stadium, was officially opened on Saturday.

John Armfield, one of Jimmy’s two sons, was there to cut the ribbon after giving a hugely emotional speech to those in attendance.

“We’ve watched with interest the amazing work that has been carried out,” John said.

“My Dad always said fans are the lifeblood of every club. This club is certainly in the blood of all of us today.

“What a great honour to name the bar after my Dad - we know he would have been delighted.

“Even though he was born in Manchester, my Dad always thought of him himself as a Sandgrownun - living in the town for 78 years.

“Dad always had an affinity to the supporters of the town, he always thought of himself as one of them.

“Even after he finished playing, he would still help the club out in any way possible. In the good times and not so good times.

“He never criticised anyone, he just got on with it. He was a supporter, a true supporter.

“When I was told about the plans for this supporters’ club, as a family we were very honoured. We would all like to thank you for remembering him.

“We wish you every success in your endeavours. Our only other wish is that Dad could be here in person, but I’m sure he’s watching from above.”

Named after Armfield, the bar also features rooms named after ex-manager Billy Ayre and club legend Brett Ormerod.

While the project involves dozens of Blackpool supporters, Andy Higgins has been the driving force in getting the club off the ground.

“It’s been an unbelievable effort from all involved,” he said.

“It’s been a bit of an adventure. This town is a rollercoaster, the fortunes of our football club over the years have been unbelievable.

“One of the reasons why we’re all here is because we were all fundamental in the most extensive and well-run boycott of a football club. That’s what has brought us all together.

“If it wasn’t for the dark years, which we’ve put behind us now, we wouldn’t be here.

“This is a community endeavour, which is the big thing. There’s been no big money come in to this, it’s been a group effort.”

Despite being an independent venture, the bar has the support of the football club - with chief executive Ben Mansford and club director Brett Gerrity both in attendance at Saturday’s opening.

Gerrity said: “The Armfield shows what great things can be achieved when the Blackpool family pulls together.

“What the lads have achieved in making this happen in such difficult economic times shows what a wonderful fanbase we have, what passion there is for the club and I wish everyone every success with this.

“Everyone should be really proud, now let’s make this a massive success.”

To find out how you can purchase a season ticket or membership for the club, visit http://www.thearmfieldclub.co.uk

You can also find the venue on Twitter @ArmfieldClub, on Facebook by searching Armfield Club Blackpool and on Instagram at ArmfieldClub.