EWOOD legend Tony Parkes has called for a truce in the war between Blackburn Rovers and a section of their fans.

Parkes has been overwhelmed by the public out-pouring of emotion since his sacking last Friday, with many Rovers supporters bombarding the Evening Telegraph with letters protesting about the way he has been treated.

Some have threatened never to set foot in Ewood again, while others have called for a boycott of Sunday's Sky game against Birmingham City.

But Parkes, who gave Rovers 34 years of loyal service, believes it's now time to draw a line under the whole unfortunate saga.

And he has pleaded with fans to unite behind Mark Hughes and the players at a period in the season when the club desperately needs their full backing.

Speaking to the Telegraph, Parkes said today: "I would like to make it absolutely clear that I have no axe to grind with the club.

"I also feel that the club has suffered unfairly over the past few days (in terms of the criticism they have received).

"Rovers have been great with me and I have many, many happy memories which can never be erased.

"I want the fans, who have also been fantastic towards me, to know that I have no animosity whatsoever toward the club and that I will always hold Rovers very close to my heart.

"The club needs the full support of everyone as the team strives to push on and climb up the Premier League. I feel sure that with everyone pulling together that will happen."

It was the manner of Parkes' sacking more than anything which has angered many Rovers supporters.

After years of loyal service, Parkes found out that he no longer had a role at Ewood Park under Hughes after his daughter heard the news on the radio.

The club have since issued a heartfelt apology for the unfortunate way that news leaked out, which Parkes has accepted with his usual grace and dignity.

And now the former reserve team manager wants to put the whole episode behind him and focus on the future, which will feature a testimonial in his honour as a reward for his loyalty to the club over the last four decades.

"I would like to thank the club for the award of a testimonial and I am already looking forward to that occasion next Spring," added the 55-year-old, who is hoping to stay in football in some capacity.

In the meantime, Rovers are offering an exclusive one-off deal for Sunday's game against Birmingham.

Season ticket holders only can bring guests to the game for just £10, while senior citizens who are guests of existing season ticket holders will pay just £5 and juniors simply £3.

The offer is open to all season ticket holders, who can invite up to four guests each, and it applies to all areas of the ground, excluding the Jack Walker Upper Central Stand.

For full details or further information, contact the Ewood Park box office on 08701 123456.