30 Apr 2008Bristol to ground share with Cheltenham

Football Clubs News | Football Technology and Stadia

Bristol Rovers have announced that they will use Cheltenham Town's ground for their home matches for the next two seasons.

The Memorial Stadium is being upgraded and the club had left it late before arranging an alternative.

However, a deal has now been struck with Cheltenham, which will see the club paid a six-figure sum.

"The decision was made with fans in mind as it is the easiest option for travelling," chairman Ron Craig told the BBC.

"The quality of the pitch was also a consideration. We really appreciate all the backing they [the fans] have already given us and hope that they continue to do so while we play away from Bristol," he added.

The club considered playing at Swindon or Yeovil.

Cheltenham will obviously benefit from the deal and club chairman Paul Baker told the BBC that he was pleased with the arrangement.

"Hopefully we'll be able to put some of that into the playing squad," he said of the fee being paid by Bristol.

"We would like to welcome Bristol Rovers to Whaddon Road and hope that their supporters spend an enjoyable and successful two years with us," added Mr Baker.

© Copyright