James, a talented local footballer and beloved firefighter, passed away suddenly in September 2025, at the age of just 47.
The sum raised from the inaugural event will be split equally between the Fire Fighters 100 Lottery and the Great North Air Ambulance Service.
The day brought the town’s community together for a brilliant day of football, live music and fundraising -all in memory of a man who loved his football, his music and, above all, his family and friends.
“James was an exceptional friend and colleague, but more than anything, he was just an exceptional person,” said Chris Birkbeck, James’ long-term friend and work colleague. “The day was really about celebrating James by bringing together a few of his favourite things – football, music and, of course, a few drinks! More than anything, though, it was about getting everyone together, having a laugh, swapping stories and remembering James in the way we all knew him.”
He continued: “To raise over £7,000 in our first year was unbelievable. James would have absolutely loved seeing everyone together enjoying themselves – although he would have hated the fact that all the fuss was about him! We’re definitely going to make it an annual event. It’s a chance to bring everyone together, support some brilliant causes and, most importantly, remember a top bloke and a great friend.”
The day was made possible by everyone who gave up their time to help, alongside FC Hartlepool and The Pavilion Bar at Grayfields.
Chris went on: “A massive thank you has to go to all the players who took part and made the football such a good part of the day. Cheese and Stairs FC ended up winning the tournament. As a group of James’ mates, we’d joked beforehand that we had to at least try and win the first one for him! We managed to beat some really good sides along the way before beating Dads and Lads 1-0 in the final, and somehow went through the whole tournament without conceding a goal.”
Hr added: “One of the nicest moments of the day was the Player of the Tournament award. We named the trophy ‘The Wizard’ in honour of James, and it was won by Peter Twidale and presented to him by James’ daughter, Violet, which made it a really special moment. Finally, a huge thank you to everyone who helped make the whole day happen, particularly the volunteers and the brilliant tombola and raffle teams. So many people played a part in making the first Parko’s Memorial Day something we’ll always remember.”
Sarah Parkinson, James’ wife, was touched by the gratitude shown by the community.
She said: “A massive thank you to everyone who came along, played, donated, bought raffle and tombola tickets, volunteered or supported us in any way – you made the day what it was. Thank you all, we think we did James proud.”
After more than 200 footballers played in a seven-a-side tournament, the crowds were entertained throughout the day by an amazing line-up of performers, including Aden Murray, Brad Frank, Matty Fenny, Sophie Carmel, Pek & Wanley and Sam Offender.
The event was proudly supported by generous sponsors, including FA Memorabilia, Evolution Risk, Property Webmasters, Censis, Steve Murray Mortgage Adviser, S Corner, First Team Physiotherapy and the Fire Brigade Union, while senior management from Cleveland Fire Brigade went along to support the event too.
