Tony Parkes, the former Blackburn Rovers player and coach known as 'Mr Blackburn Rovers', has died at the age of 76. The club confirmed the news in a statement, describing Parkes as a 'true club legend' and sending condolences to his daughter Natalie and family.
Parkes joined Blackburn in 1970 for £5,000 from Buxton and went on to make 409 appearances, scoring 46 goals. He was part of the side that won the Third Division title in 1975 and secured promotion back to the second tier in 1979. After retiring as a player in 1982, he became first-team coach under Bobby Saxton and later served six spells as caretaker manager.
His most notable caretaker stint came in the 1996-97 season when he steered the club away from relegation after Ray Harford's departure. Parkes was also part of the backroom staff when Blackburn won the Premier League in 1995. He left Ewood Park in 2004 and later worked as a scout for Leicester and as assistant manager at Blackpool.
Former Blackburn striker Alan Shearer paid tribute on X, writing: 'RIP Tony. A great man.' Kevin Gallacher added: 'Coach, boss, legend who I’m proud to call a friend.' Chris Sutton described Parkes as 'Mr Blackburn' with a 'wonderful sense of humour'.
Sir Kenny Dalglish, who managed Blackburn to the Premier League title, said: 'Very sad to hear about the passing of Tony Parkes. A fantastic man who I had the privilege of working alongside at Blackburn. Loyal, dedicated and someone who gave everything to the club.'
Blackburn Rovers will honour Parkes at their final home game of the season against Leicester City on 2 May. Supporters have been invited to lay floral tributes at the Jack Walker statue, and a book of condolence will be open from Friday.
