Legend Gordon our League salutes you

We are proud to have been part of history for Gordon a true legend

The very sad news that South West broadcaster and newspaper colleague and legend Gordon Sparks has passed away at such an early age has come as a major blow to those in the beautiful game.

On behalf of the Devon & Exeter Football League I would like to convey our sincere condolences to the family, his media colleagues, Plymouth Argyle FC and all the staff and supporters of our Devon rivals, who have waved him farewell with such passion and kindness.

Gordon has passed as one of the most popular ever figures in promoting Devon football, a giant in the media.

However many of you may be surprised to hear that Gordon was very much linked to our League. So we are delighted to have been part of his history.

Gordon’s widow Heather is the daughter of Julia and the late Eric Manning who was our League secretary for nearly 40 years from 1967 before handing over the reins to Chris Davey.

During that time Gordon often played skittles for the Devon & Exeter football team who were called Devonex Rovers often using the Diggers Rest in Woodbury Salterton the Jack in the Green on the Rockbeare strait, and other such public houses.
Current League chairman Roland Brown, Vice President Pat Leisk, Tony Dascombe, referee Lionel Hawkins and the late Lew Barding were regular members of that team, along with his father in law Eric who was a passionate skittler.

R.I.P Gordon you will be missed by so many connected to Devon football.

 

Monday 17th October 2022