The Footballing World, Blackpool FC and Blackpool as a town have today been mourning the loss of a true footballing legend. Armfield was a one club man playing for Blackpool between 1954 and 1971, making 627 appearances, and was part of the 1953 FA Cup winning squad.
Armfield Passed away today aged 82 after battling a long illness.
A tweet by Blackpool FC this evening stated how far and wide tributes had come in for Armfield.
‘A Burnley scarf, a Leeds United shirt and a wreath from the coaching staff and players can be found next to Jimmy Armfield’s statue this evening.’
Valeri Belokon Speaking to Blackpool Gazette today shared his thoughts on Armfield
”This is a very sad day for Blackpool Football Club as one of its greatest stars has left us,’
“I knew about Jimmy even before I was involved with the club: his devotion just to one club and his family, skills on the pitch and being a gentleman off the pitch.
‘He served as an example to anyone. Meeting and talking to Armfield was always a pleasure and I will always remember him for his kindness, approach-ability, and love to Blackpool Football Club.
“In fact, meeting Armfield was one of the reasons I decided to invest in the club and when the South Stand was built – there were no discussions on its name.
‘My condolences to his wife Anne and other family members. Jimmy is a legend and it will stay that way in our hearts.”
Blackpool have announced that from today, all proceeds from the Charlton Athletic home game this weekend will be donated to Trinity Hospice in memory of Jimmy Armfield.
A statement from Blackpool Football Club today stated
‘From today, Blackpool Football Club will donate all revenue from home match ticket sales for Saturday’s league game against Charlton Athletic to Trinity Hospice.
‘Trinity Hospice, based on Low Moor Road in Bispham, provided compassionate care for Jimmy Armfield in his last few days, prior to his sad passing at the age of 82.’
Blackpool council have also paid their tributes to Jimmy Armfield, Illuminating Blackpool Tower Tangerine, and displaying a message honoring Jimmy on the arches at both ends of the illuminations at Starr Gate and Bispham.
Tributes will continue to pour in for a true footballing Gentleman, and not only just a Blackpool Legend, but an England footballing legend.
Jimmy Armfield
1935-2018
