Gary Parkinson Tribute Dinner to take place at Turf Moor

Gary’s former clubs have collaborated on the dinner, sponsored by Fun88, which aims to raise funds to help Gary in his recovery and rehabilitation.

The former Clarets’ defender whose clubs include Everton, Middlesbrough, Southend, Bolton Wanderers, Preston North End, Blackpool and Stalybridge Celtic, totalling well over 550 games, was working as youth team coach at Blackpool when he suffered the stroke in September 2010.

This left the 43-year-old with ‘locked-in syndrome’, a condition of almost paralysis where the only means of communication is by eye movement.

However Gary remains fully aware of his surroundings and is showing very small signs of improvement, through rehabilitation and specialist care.

Ticket prices for the three-course dinner, MC Mick Docherty, are £30 per head or £300 for table of 10.

Entertainment will be provided by Paul Fletcher and Steve Kindon.

To book contact Veronica Simpson, Secretary of the Burnley FC Former Players’ Association on 07974310099, afternoons only on 01282 700001 or e-mail [email protected]