Bristol Rovers have confirmed that they will be playing their home matches at Cheltenham Town's ground while the Memorial Stadium is redeveloped.

The Pirates will be heading up the M5 to Whaddon Road for up to two seasons while the stadium is demolished in the summer.

The decision to share with Cheltenham follows lengthy discussions between Rovers officials and their counterparts at Cheltenham, as well as talks with Swindon Town and Yeovil Town.

The three clubs were all receptive to the idea of hosting Rovers' home matches, but it was decided that Cheltenham had the most to offer and would be more suitable for fans.

Bristol Rovers chairman Ron Craig said: "We are very pleased to announce that we will be playing our home games at Whaddon Road while the Memorial Stadium is being redeveloped.

"The decision to share with Cheltenham was made with fans in mind, as it is the easiest option for travelling.

"We also had to take financial aspects into account, and the quality of the pitch was also a consideration.

"We would like to thank Swindon Town and Yeovil Town for their cooperation during this time, and we look forward to working closely with Cheltenham in the coming months.

"We are also looking forward to the continued support of our loyal fans during this difficult time away from the Memorial Stadium.

"We really appreciate all the backing they have already given us, and hope that they continue to do so while we play away from Bristol."

Whaddon Road is 40 miles up the M5 from the Memorial Stadium - a journey that can take between 40 minutes and an hour, depending on traffic.

The stadium has an overall capacity of 7,136, including 3,912 seats - more than half the venue's overall capacity.

The playing surface at the ground is renowned for being exceptional, and this played a significant part in the decision.

Cheltenham Town chairman Paul Baker has confirmed that the parking facilities at Cheltenham Racecourse will be available to operate a Park & Ride service on match days.

He said: "We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Bristol Rovers to groundshare for the next two seasons.

"The deal is clearly very important to us in terms of additional revenue generation but it is equally important that the two clubs do everything possible to minimise the impact on local residents who will clearly have concerns about this arrangement.

"We have liaised very closely with the Gloucestershire Police in our discussions and have confirmed with the Racecourse that their car-park facilities will be available on matchdays to operate a Park & Ride service which will reduce traffic congestion and car-parking near to the stadium.

"We look forward to working closely with the Bristol Rovers directors and staff over the coming months towards an arrangement that will be mutually beneficial for both clubs.

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

Season ticket details for the 2008/09 season will be released shortly, along with information on travel offers.