THE family of the club’s former youth team coach John Appleby, who sadly passed away mid-way through last year, are appealing for his former teammates, friends, and associates to get in contact with them ahead of a celebration event at the Pirelli Stadium.
Known affectionately as Mr Staffordshire, John was secretary for Staffordshire Schools’ Football Association as well as a former teacher at Paulet High School in Burton upon Trent, and was involved heavily in supporting local youth football at all levels.
Before our Academy system was established, John oversaw the development of young Brewers players within the club’s youth team set-up, including the likes of Aaron Webster as they made their journey to the first-team.
John was one of the first trustees of Burton Albion Community Trust and was regularly seen at the Pirelli Stadium to offer his ongoing support to Trust staff, volunteers and programme participants.
His family believe that one photo in particular (featured) of John playing for Town Hall FC in 1972 features several of his former friends and would be very grateful if they could get in touch.
If you would like to attend the event or contact the family with more information, then you can do so by contacting John’s daughter Ellie Appleby via email: celebratemrstaffordshire@gmail.com