Cobblers Past and Northampton Town Football Club are saddened to learn the passing of ex-player Tony Claypole. 

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 the club as a junior and then signed professionally 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 clubman 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.

Back in January 2021 Club historian, Ethan Grande helped Tony’s family launch an appeal for Memorabilia on his career as hehe could fondly recall his footballing days. We received many photos/programs from his career and his family thanked all supporters for their help. 

We would like to send our condolences to all of Tony’s family and friends.