Josser Watling Obituary Death – Bristol Rovers have honored a deceased renowned former player. The last surviving member of the legendary Rovers team from the 1950s was John “Josser” Watling.”Josser” was born on May 11th, 1925 in Bristol. He fought in the Royal Navy during World War II and was on a boat that was sunk by Nazi warships off the coast of Russia.
Mr. Watling joined Rovers in October 1945 and became a professional in January 1947. On Valentine’s Day 1948, he made his league debut for the team in a local derby against Bristol City.
On that occasion, Rovers fell 5-2 at Ashton Gate, but it was his first of 323 league appearances for the team, his only league club. As well
When I first met him, he was a regular at Rovers home games, always accompanied by Bill Roost, a dear friend and another former Rovers player. He always made time for a chat and was full of anecdotes from his time in the navy and as a player for the Rovers.Although ‘Josser’ participated in just five games during the 1952–1953 promotion campaign.
he represented the team in the FA Cup quarterfinals against Fulham in 1958 and Newcastle United in 1951. He also participated in the 1960 League Cup match between Rovers and Fulham. His many admirers, who had the pleasure of getting to know him, as well as his immediate family and friends, will be mourning his passing today.
