TRANMERE Rovers have paid tribute to loyal fan Les Roberts who played the part of the club's mascot Rover the Dog for over 30 years. 

Les, who has died aged 69, had supported Rovers since he was seven-years-old and began dressing as the club's canine character as far back as 1994 when Tranmere were battling for a place in the Premier League. 

His final game dressed as Rover was the last game of last season when Les, a father-of-five and a former college lecturer, spoke to the club's programme about his experiences working as a mascot. 

"I thoroughly enjoy it," he said. "I enjoy every part of it, particularly before the games.

"I’ll get out at maybe quarter past two if it’s a three o’clock kick-off. I enjoy going round and meeting all the fans and hearing the stories they tell me. Many want shirts or programmes signing, and some have a little mini Rover that they want me to introduce myself to."

When asked for his best memory over the last three decades, Les, said: "All of those times when we could have got in the Premiership were fantastic, but for me it was Boreham Wood. I was at Wembley three times!

"We’d been the year before when we were beaten by Forest Green. When I’d got back from meeting fans, I didn’t realise we’d had a player sent off and we were down to ten men! When we won and we were back in the Football League, it was unbelievable."

Paying tribute, the club said: "We are extremely saddened to learn of the passing of Les Roberts, who was the man behind our Rover the Dog mascot for 30 years from 1994-2024.

"Les put a smile on the face of so many fans during his life, and was a true gentleman with a kind heart.

"He will be sorely missed at Prenton Park. Our thoughts are with his family and friends at this time."

Tranmere manager Nigel Adkins also paid tribute to Les.

He said: "Before every game Les would give me a hug and we'd do a high-five.

"It's very sad and everyone at the football club's hearts go out to his family and friends. He will be sadly missed."