 Hesford began his career at Blackpool, where he played more than 200 games and won seven caps for the England Under-21 team.When he made his debut, against Oldham Athletic on 20 August 1977, aged 17, he became the youngest goalkeeper ever to play for Blackpool in a League game.As he ran out for the second half, he offended the "Latics" support by flashing them a "V" sign.