MESSAGES of congratulation have come flooding in to Leigh Centurions after they finally won their long battle to be promoted to Super League.

But none will take more pride of place in the Centurions boardroom then the one received on Wednesday from Prime Minister Tony Blair

Leigh will take their place alongside the game's elite next season after spending the last 11 years out of the rugby league spotlight.

Sunday's extra time Grand Final victory over Whitehaven even thrilled the PM Tony Blair who has sent a personal message from Number 10.

Mr Blair's message reads: "I would like to send my warm congratulations to everyone involved with Leigh Centurions Rugby League Club on achieving the long-held goal of Super League status.

"Andy Burnham has told me what this means for the town and I hope it will give everyone a great boost. With plans for the Leigh Sports Village taking shape, the club looks set to go from strength to strength.

"Well done and good luck to Leigh in the Super League."

Leigh MP Mr Burnham also added his congratulations "Why is it that the clubs I support never do things the easy way? It was a rollercoaster ride, but the players showed character and grit when it mattered and have taken us back where we belong. It was a great night and a moment to savour for the whole town. It will has given Leigh a big lift and we have much to look forward to.

"I am speaking in a debate in the House of Commons on Thursday on 'school sport' and will be formally congratulating the club then."

And to mark Leigh's achievment Wigan Council are to arrange a civic reception for the team at Leigh town hall on a date to be fixed next month.