Tributes paid to Christian football legend Jimmy Armfield

Armfield, who was a former Blackpool footballer, England’s captain, a manager and broadcaster died after a battle with cancer.

He has been remembered as an active member St Peter’s Church in Blackpool where he was an organist, choirmaster and treasurer. In 2001, Armfield also became a lay Canon of Blackburn Cathedral.

Rt Rev Julian Henderson, Bishop of Blackburn, said: “He has been a great supporter of The Church of England in Lancashire and especially his local church where he played the organ for many years.

“Jimmy had an astonishing career and he was very committed as a Christian. So, at this difficult time we join with, and pray for, Jimmy’s family and the congregation of Blackpool St Peter in mourning his death.”

Jimmy Armfield, CBE

Rt Rev Nicholas Reade, the retired Bishop of Blackburn, knew Armfield well and remembered him as a welcoming person.

He said: “I am so sad today – Jimmy Armfield was one of the first people to welcome me to the Diocese when I arrived in 2004 and I will always remember his warm smile and warm handshake; his hospitality and generosity.

“His Christian faith was very important to him and helped him through the difficult times as well as the good times.”

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Bishops from the Diocese of Blackburn have paid tribute to football legend and Christian, Jimmy Armfield, CBE, who died over the weekend at the age of 82.