They have been described as “integral” to the Brighton and Hove Albion match experience.

But now Gully’s Girls – the Seagulls’ home game support troupe – have been scrapped and the club is looking for a new name for its dance outfit.

Albion has decided to make the much-loved cheerleaders, who have been a constant presence at first Withdean and now the American Express Community Stadium since its opening, a mixed dance troupe.

They trialled their first “street dance” routine in front of a packed stadium on Saturday for the match against Bolton.

While some supporters admitted the new dancers were talented, some argue they missed the old Gully’s Girls, famed for fire-eating, high-tempo cheerleading and short skirts.

A club spokesman said: “The club's dance group has been revamped to something more contemporary.

“We have integrated male dancers and the new-look group opted for a modern street dance pre-match routine ahead of the Bolton match on Saturday, November 24.

Broaden engagement

“We also want to broaden the group’s overall engagement with supporters before, during and after the match, with activities all around the stadium and on the external concourse, as well as expanding their role outside of the matches and generally making them a bigger part of the club.

“They’ll continue to mix things up in the coming weeks, but having recruited some additional male members to the original Gully’s Girls group, we are now looking for a new name – and we would welcome all suggestions from our fans.”

Supporters took to the Gully’s Girls’ Facebook page to call for their return.

Keith Meredith said: “Pease, please, please, please, Gully’s Girls I’m begging on my knees to get rid of those boys.”

Michael Goldsmith added: “I say, bring back Gully’s Girls – it starts here.”

But others were more complimentary.

Alison Evans said: “Loved the new routine. We must be the first club to have a street dance group.”

Mark Hewitt added: “I thought they were really good.”

Talking point: To what extent have Gully's Girls captured the hearts of Brighton and Hove Albion fans? Could a new street dance group do the same?

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