Career
Born in Gateshead, Parkin spent his youth career with Ipswich Town and turned professional with Ipswich in December 1973, He was sent out on loan to Grimsby Town during the 1975-1976 season and then to Peterborough United the following season. Later in 1977 he was loaned to Connecticut Bicentennials of the North American Soccer League. Despite becoming a first team regular during the 1983-1984 season, Parkin soon returned to being a reserve player.
His final appearance for Ipswich was a League Cup defeat to Cambridge United, and he left he club in 1987.
He subsequently joined Bury Town, where he played until 1990.
