RIP Tony Parkes

The club was saddened to hear of the death of former player Tony Parkes at the age of 76 on Wednesday following a long battle with Alzheimer’s Disease. Parkes signed for the Bucks in late 1969 from Sheffield side Frecheville, on a professional contract, following a trial period. He went on to score a remarkable 33 goals in just 30 league and cup games that season for Buxton before a £3000 (around £60,000 in today's money) transfer to Blackburn Rovers in the summer of 1970.

Rovers reverted Tony to a midfield roll and his 350 matches for Blackburn brought 38 goals and he made his name in the backroom staff after retiring from playing in 1982. He had six stints as caretaker manager at Ewood Park and was part of the staff when Kenny Dalglish’s side lifted the Premiership Trophy in 1995. He left Rovers in 2004 but was awarded a testimonial the following year and then joined Blackpool as assistant to then manager Simon Grayson before another caretaker role there in 2008.

Buxton Football Club send condolences to Tony’s family and friends on this sad occasion, but all can be proud of his fine achievements in the game.