Thanks to all supporters who have already taken out a sponsorship of a cap of one of the members of the Watney Cup squad, and to those who have expressed an interest in sponsoring other players at a future date.

For now, though, we are concentrating on the members of the Watney Cup squad, who lifted the trophy fifty years ago when they beat Sheffield United 7-6 in a penalty shootout at Eastville.

If you have considered sponsoring a cap for any member of that squad, it’s not too late; you have until 23rd August to confirm your sponsorship.

Although only 12 players featured in the three Watney Cup fixtures 50 years ago, all members of the squad appeared in the Football League for Rovers and are therefore eligible to receive a cap under this unique initiative devised by Bristol Rovers Supporters Club.

We will be reminding you, quite often, who is available for sponsorship, and remember that there is no exclusivity in this; there is no limit to how many supporters can sponsor one player and the cost is £50 for Supporters Club members and £60 for non members.

If you are interested, please contact the Supporters Club secretary with the name of the player you would like to sponsor and you will then be sent details of how to pay for your sponsorship. Contact details are as follows; secretary@bristolroverssc.co.uk

Here’s a reminder of four members of that squad.

Striker Bruce Bannister joined Rovers in November 1971 and made his debut on 9th of that month, against Rotherham United (debut number 414). He went on to score 80 goals in 206 league games for the club and formed a lethal strike partnership with Alan Warboys, the two being famously known as ‘Smash & Grab’.

Skipper Brian Godfrey made his Rovers debut on the same day as Mike Green, against York City on 14th August 1971 (debut number 411) and his Rovers career took in 81 league games and 16 goals).

Brian passed away in February 2010and his cap will be presented to his family.

A non playing member of the Watney Cup squad, Tom Stanton appeared in 172 league games for Rovers, scoring seven goals in the process. His debut came against Crewe Alexandra on 31st August 1968 (debut number 395.

Back up goalkeeper Malcolm Dalrymple was another non playing member of the Watney Cup squad. He appeared in just seven league games for Rovers, making his debut on 22nd April 1972 against Wrexham (debut number 418).