[3] Tartt impressed, despite the embarrassing score-lines (goalkeeper Alan Boswell was held responsible) and became a regular in the side, making 32 appearances in 1972–73, as the "Valiants" missed out on promotion out of the Third Division by four points.
Tarrt played a total of 45 games in 1973–74, retaining his first-team place as manager Gordon Lee departed in January, and was replaced by Roy Sproson.
He was a key member of the side that lifted the last ever instalment of the Anglo-Scottish Cup, despite Rangers manager John Greig calling him "the worst full-back in Europe".
He regained his old position and was transferred back to the club for £15,000 the next month, thereby joining Chesterfield teammate Ernie Moss, who was signed by Vale for £12,000.
However, he retained his first-team place, hitting two goals in 48 appearances as Vale won promotion in 1982–83, playing alongside former Chesterfield teammate John Ridley.
Relegated back into the basement division, Rudge attempted to rebuild the squad, and so gave Tartt a free transfer in May 1985, following two goals in 15 games in 1984–85.
[8] He later played for Shepshed Charterhouse and Matlock Town in the Midland Football Alliance and Northern Premier League, and returned to teaching.