Parkes leaves Lions for Hartlepool

Another of the Livingston FC players who appeared against Hearts in the 2-1 victory by the Tynecastle team at The Tony Macaroni Arena in the cinch Premiership last week has left the club.

Defender Tom Parkes has joined English National League side Hartlepool United in a move which takes the player closer to his family.

The contract of the 31-year-old, former England youth international, who moved to Scotland in 2021, was due to run out in the summer and the chance to be closer to home appealed to the player who made 27 appearances for the Lions, scoring three times.

David Martindale, Livingston’s manager, said: “I wish Tom nothing but success. His time at Livingston has been hampered by long-term injuries which have been a real shame for him and the cub.

“He is a top, top professional and gives you everything every day and he will be a huge miss around the club. I would never have stood in the way of him being able to be closer to his family.”

Parkes, who holds nearly 500 career appearances, could make his debut against Fylde on Tuesday, subject to clearance. He told Hartlepool’s website: “The lads have welcomed me in and I’m excited.”

PICTURE: Tom Parkes in a group of players celebrating after scoring against Hearts, his last game for the club. Picture David Mollison