Tom Parker has been a credit to Whitstable Town, says chairman Joe Brownett

Monday 14th February 2011

WHITSTABLE TOWN boss Peter Nott says long-serving defender Tom Parker has left the club as he wasn’t playing regular first team football.

Parker has been a tremendous servant to the Belmont Road club, making 230 first team appearances, after progressing through the club’s youth and reserve teams.

Parker telephoned Nott on Sunday and the manager told www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk: “I understand when a player wants to play every game, but when Tom called me on Sunday I was still a bit surprised as he has been such a part of Whitstable’s success over the years.

“His loyalty to Whitstable Town is there for all to see, you don’t see too many players get to play over two hundred times for their club that often.”

Asked whether the defender was moving on elsewhere, Nott replied, “At this stage Tom has not decided where his next port of call will be so we will retain his registration to leave the door open for him to return in the future.

“We wish Tom every success and he will always receive a warm welcome back at the Belmont. It is always sad when a loyal player like Tom decides to call it a day but we understand his reasons and will support him in any way we can.”

Chairman Joe Brownett added: “We have known Tom since he played youth football for the club. He will be missed as he has been around the Belmont for a very long time.

“My wife Josie, myself, Bruce and Connie (Smith) will be sorry that he will no longer be part of the team.

“Tom is a friend of the club, very well liked by all and highly regarded by all of the committee and I am sure I speak for the supporters by saying a big thank you to Tom for being such a loyal servant to Whitstable Town.

“He has never given us a moment’s trouble, always at training, a good time keeper and his record speaks for itself. His football is matched by the way he behaves off the pitch; Tom has been a credit to the club.”

Article courtesy of Tony Rouse - www.whitstabletownfc.co.uk

Bognor Regis Town v Whitstable Town

Ryman League Division One South

Tuesday 15th February 2011

Kick Off 7:45pm

At Nyewood Lane, Bognor Regis, West Sussex PO21 2TY