Tony, born in Weldon, played for the Cobblers from 1953 to 1962 making over 125 appearances until injury cut short his professional career. Tony joined as a Junior and then signed professional after leaving school before making his debut in 1957. Tony could play on either flank and was a regular in the side that were promoted from the fourth division. He was the regular left back during the 1961-62 season until he sustained a broken leg playing against Coventry, only a fortnight after getting married.

Tony never played professional football again. After being released by The Cobblers, Tony went on to play semi-professional for Cheltenham Town in the Southern League. He then filled a number of defensive roles for Corby Town and Wellingborough Town, helping The Doughboys win the Metropolitan League Championship in 1969/70.

Tony moved to Cornwall and continued playing football and being an excellent club man for local clubs – Penzance FC and Mullion FC. Tony finally hung up his boots in 2005 at the age of 68. Sadly, since that time, Tony has been suffering with Alzheimer’s and Dementia – conditions which are now finally being recognised within the footballing world. Recent research published found that footballers have an increased risk of neurodegenerative disease such as Alzheimer’s, Dementia, Motor Neurone Disease or Parkinson’s. Results from the research indicated that ex-football players who were involved in the study had a 3.5 times higher risk of neurodegenerative disease. If anyone would like any further information on this, Tony’s family are available to help.

Tony is coming up to his 84th birthday and sadly is not in good shape but he can fondly recall his footballing days and as a result his family are asking for fans to share any memories of him or any memorabilia they may have.

If you have any Memorabilia or memories of Tony please contact Cobblers Past either on social media or at ethan@cobblerspast.com. We look forward to hearing from you all.