Get on your mobile and text support for Bristol 2018 World Cup bid

Bristol City manager Gary Johnson has already sent a text in support of the West's 2018 World Cup bid – and so has his wife.

But it is the football fans of the city – red, blue and indifferent – whose texts are required for Bristol to secure its place as one of 12 host venues in England's 2018 World Cup bid.

Tonight an expected crowd of 15,000 supporters at Ashton Gate will be asked to join in a mass text to back the city's bid.

At half-time during City's Coca-Cola Championship match against Plymouth Argyle, the call will be made on the pitch and over the PA system for fans to vote with their phones and text "BRISTOL" to 62018. Texts are charged at the standard network rate and can be sent any time.

The city is one of 16 English cities bidding to host matches during the 2018 FIFA World Cup and, along with Plymouth's late bid, offers the chance of bringing the tournament to the West for the first time.

If successful, Bristol could hold 3-4 first round matches and possibly a quarter-final.

Hanover, Bristol's German twin, hosted a second-round tie between Spain and France in 2006, proof of the calibre of teams who could be taking to the field of play in this city.

Johnson, who coached Latvia in the qualification stages of the 2002 World Cup told the Evening Post: "I've been involved in World Cup campaigns and all I can say is it's a magnificent event and we've got to do all we can to bring it to Bristol because people won't be sorry if it comes here.

"I've sent a text and my wife sent one too. Not just because people have asked but because it will be fantastic.

"I've spent over eight years managing clubs in the South West and there is absolutely no doubt that the area has a lot to offer the world, both in footballing terms and off the pitch too."

There is not long left for fans and those recognising the economic importance of hosting such an event in the South West to register their support.

The Bristol 2018 team must submit their bid on November 9 and breaths will be held on December 14 when the England 2018 team announce the 12 venues.

TO WIN a trip to Wembley with the Bristol bid team check out our Design a Football competition.