'We're just out there to enjoy it' - Bristol Rovers Women's FC look forward to their first football game

The 'Gas Girls' in training at their home ground, Lockleaze Sports Centre in Bristol. Credit: ITV West Country

There's been a dramatic growth in women's football, in part due to the success of the 2019 Women's World Cup this summer. Bristol Rovers, which hasn't been represented in the field since 2005, have decided to revive their women's team.

Whatever happened to the 'Gas Girls'?

  • The ‘Gas Girls’ were initially formed in 1998, starting out in the South West League

  • In 2005, Bristol Rovers Women’s FC became known as Bristol Academy WFC under a new partnership agreement with South Gloucestershire and Stroud College

  • In 2011 the club changed its name to Bristol Academy WFC

  • In 2015 it finally became Bristol City Women’s Football Club

Rovers made the announcement about the women's team in April and since then it's gone from strength to strength.

The Gas Girls get a team briefing from manager, Nathan Hallett-Young. Credit: ITV West Country

Bristol Rovers Women’s FC have joined the Gloucestershire County Women’s League where the first team will play in Division 1 while the Development Team will start in Division 2. The under 18s team will compete in the Gloucestershire FA Under 18s League.

First Team Captain, Natalie Coles, says it's just a first step.

The teams are based at the new £6 million Lockleaze Sport Centre and will play every Sunday from September 2019. Bristol Rovers Community Trust says supporters will be made very welcome.