Bucks Free Press signs sports legend Alan Parry
Legendary commentator Alan Parry has joined the Bucks Free Press in an exciting summer signing ahead of Wycombe Wanderers’ historic Championship campaign.
The Sky Sports man has penned his first column this week and will closely follow the Chairboys throughout the 2020/21 season.
Following last season’s amazing League One play-off victory, Gareth Ainsworth’s men are set for another rollercoaster ride taking on the likes of Derby County, Norwich City and Nottingham Forest.
And in a bid to provide the best coverage of the local heroes, the award-winning weekly Newsquest title has dipped into the transfer market to bring Parry to the team.
The roving reporter has worked for Sky Sports, BBC, ITV and TalkSport throughout his career, known as the voice of thousands of memorable moments and matches.
Parry has also had a long-term association with Wycombe Wanderers going back to 1975 when he covered their FA Cup tie against Middlesbrough for the BBC.
He became a fan and later a club director, serving on the board for over 20 years before a spell as the club’s Head of Media.
He is set to provide readers with a weekly column and will regularly cover matches too, delivering reports and interviews with the players and coaching team.
Discussing his partnership with the Free Press, Parry said: “This is a momentous season for Wycombe and I’m thrilled to play a part in it through the BFP.
“I began my career as a journalist on my local paper in Liverpool and after so many years in broadcasting this new venture brings me full circle.
“Daily newspapers face a challenging time in this era of instant news, but there will always be a place for local papers like the BFP who play such a vital part in the community.
“Their sports coverage has always been excellent and it’s particularly important in these difficult times with matches being played behind closed doors and supporters hungry for news and insights.
“I believe the BFP should be supportive of the Wanderers, but I respect their right to be critical when necessary so I won’t shy away from that in my weekly columns and match reports.
“Having commentated on a lot of Championship games for Sky Sports last season, I know how tough the step up is going to be for the club both on and off the field. It will be a huge challenge but one to relish.”
Wanderers kick-off their new campaign in the first round of the EFL Cup away at Brentford’s new stadium on Sunday.
The Chairboys then start their league campaign at home to Rotherham on Saturday, September 9 before facing a trip to Blackburn Rovers one week later.
Group Editor Andrew Colley said: “Wycombe Wanderers continue to wow the town with a huge buzz generated after last season’s success — a feel-good story at a desperately difficult time.
“We know we have a role to play in providing the best coverage for Blues fans, especially with the prospect of empty grounds remaining in place for the foreseeable future.
“That’s why we are delighted to reveal this partnership with Alan. The legendary commentator’s expertise will see him lead our line-up for the new campaign and we can’t wait to get started.
“The club’s journey has only just begun and there will be plenty of ups and down — we hope to be there with you every step of the way. Come on you Blues!”
