Blackthorn buccaneers

'The Blackthorn Buccaneers' are a splinter group of Bristol Rovers supporters who celebrate their existence at most games by the waving of Pirate flags and wearing of Piratesque costumes.

Formed in 2000, the aim of this group is to celebrate the maritime heritage of the city of Bristol, identifying with the Pirate on the clubs badge, as well as to pro-act against the name 'Gasheads' which had been given to them by supporters of Bristol City, their fiercest rivals. The group take their name from the terrace on which they stand at The Memorial Stadium. Although, originally, named the Blackthorn Terrace it is now known as the Bass Terrace due to a change in sponsorship.

Since forming, the group has lobbied the club to make more commercial use of the Pirate as a logo. Whilst this initially met with a cool response, of late attitudes have begun to change and in 2008 the club began to stock a small amount of Pirate merchandise in their retail outlets. This, in itself, was partially due to Bristol Rovers playing in the 5th round, and quarter-final, of the FA Cup and the media attention that came with it. The club held a 'dress like a pirate' day for the visit of Southampton, in the FA Cup 5th round, on Feb 16th, and gained much television exposure for the Blackthorn Buccaneers, the club, and other supporters, as a consequence.