The former Darlington, Doncaster and Oldham boss takes over from Paul Trollope, who was sacked last month after five and a half years in charge.

BBC: Bristol Rovers appoint Dave Penney as their new manager

Rovers currently lie 21st in League One and have not played since the Johnstone's Paint Trophy defeat by Exeter on 14 December, after which former boss Paul Trollope was sacked.

BBC: Bristol Rovers must get better - Will Hoskins

Paul Trollope's side have won just once in their last five league games and are in ninth place, eight points off the play-offs, after their worst defeat in 18 years.

BBC: Bristol Rovers chairman Nick Higgs defends club