JOHN ALBERT COOK
A conversation with Rovers supporter Andy Wiltshire at a Blue Diamond lunch has led to the Supporters Club presenting a cap to their oldest living player; Andy told us that he knew someone whose father played for Rovers in 1946/47 and asked if he was eligible for a cap to commemorate his league debut.
The player in question is John Albert Cook, born on 27th June 1929 at Iron Acton, who joined Rovers on trial in May 1946 and signed amateur forms for the club in September of that year.
Two months later the 17 year old not only made his reserve team debut against Brentford’s second string, but also an FA Cup debut in a 3-1 defeat by Merthyr Tydfil.
He made his league debut in a goalless draw against Brighton & Hove Albion, at Eastville, on 7th December 1946 and also appeared in a 2-2 draw against Walsall at Eastville on Christmas Day that year.
Those were the only two league appearances during his six year stint with Rovers, time interrupted by National Service, and he joined Bridgwater Town in August 1952. Unfortunately, he suffered a double leg break playing in a Western League match against Dorchester Town in February 1953 which ended his career.
Now living with his daughter in Torquay, he was presented with his cap by his son Paul who, together with his other son, daughter and son in law, celebrated the occasion at a local restaurant.
John, said Paul, was delighted to receive a memento of his Rovers debut all those years ago, so thanks to Andy Wiltshire and Paul for making sure that he received his cap.
