VERNON STOKES
8th February 1927 – 1st July 2026
A Bristol Rovers Director for some 15 years, 99 year old Vernon Stokes died in Southmead Hospital on 1st July 2026.
Born in what was then the Anchor Inn (later renamed the Made for Ever) on New Cheltenham Road, Vernon attended Kingswood Grammar School from 1938 until 1943 and, when 17 years old in 1944, he volunteered to join the Royal Navy and served his country for three years, being a crew member of HMS Implacable based in Scotland.
His family ran the Made for Ever from 1919 until the mid 1960’s and although he had the opportunity to take on the licence when his parents retired, he was building his own leather goods business and declined the opportunity.
As well as being a prominent local businessman, Vernon was a keen supporter of Bristol Rovers and he served as a Board member during our exile in Bath and on our return to Bristol. Working closely with the Dunford family and his fellow Directors, he also provided financial support during some very challenging times for our Football Club.
On retiring from the Board of Directors in January 2002 he became an Honorary Vice President and he continued to attend matches as a member of the President’s Club for many years.
He had been unable to come to games in recent times, but followed the fortunes of the club very closely, listening to the radio commentary every week and speaking with many of the acquaintances he made during his time with the club.
A friend to many, including former players and managers, Vernon was a true gentleman and Rovers through and through. He will be missed by all who met him and worked with him and his contribution to our club’s survival will not be forgotten.
We extend our condolences to his family, his many friends and all who knew him.
