Earlier this year our sponsor Wehrly’s Jewellers met with the Bit O’ Red Supporters Trust about making a watch with a Sligo Rovers link.

The idea simply took off from there as Richard Wehrly explains.

Richard Wehrly said: “A couple of months ago, I approached the Bit O’Red Supporters Trust with an idea about doing a watch with a small Sligo Rovers twist, such as an engraving on the back, with a goal of raising money for the Trust and ultimately the club.

“They raised the bar and asked about a Sligo Rovers watch, would it be possible? 

“At the time, I wasn’t sure we could develop a watch that would be fashionable, good quality and maintain a reasonable price tag in such a short space of time but thanks to a fantastic Irish supplier we were able to design and develop the limited edition watch as you see it today. 

“It has exceeded our expectations and as usual Sligo Rovers fans have put their hands in their pockets to support the club they love.

“It has been a fantastic experience, and one that shows what sport is all about, 

“Sligo Rovers is a community club, the fans make it what it is and we are very proud to be supporters of such a great club. 

“We presented a cheque for €5,000 to the Bit O’Red Supporters Trust so they can continue their great work in supporting and promoting Sligo Rovers.”

Clive Hynes of the Trust said: “The product produced was very classy and proved extremely popular, so much so that now the watch sold out very quickly, much faster that anyone could have anticipated.

“We are lucky to have such keen sponsors and of course the fans that purchased them really made it a success. I’d like to thank Richard for his help with this fundraiser and for recognising the work of the Trust.”

Gerard O’Connor of the Trust added: “This is one of many ideas we tried to bring in this year and well done to all the lads. 

“We handed over the €5,000 cheque directly to the club for their use.”

Chief executive Colin Feehily said: “The management committee would like to thank all at Wehrly’s for their ongoing support and the Bit O’ Red Supporters Trust who have put in an unspeakable amount of work this year. It’s no exaggeration to say they have transformed certain areas of the club. 

“Their novel thinking and work ethic has brought in vital funds and added a social aspect to the club. We are very grateful to have such volunteers trying to make the club better with each day that passes.”