FOR a journalist, covering Bury Football Club is a bit like the old adage about waiting for a bus.

Nothing happens for ages, then suddenly all hell breaks loose and a whole fleet arrives.

At least that's how it feels this week.

After a quiet summer where the most dramatic event was the ballcock being repaired in the visiting supporters toilets, excitement on and off the pitch is suddenly at fever pitch.

The reasons? The finalisation of a takeover which could safeguard the future of the club and the sell-out visit of Premiership giants Manchester United.

Both are due to happen on Wednesday when the High Court should give the green light for Turkish businessman Alex Tarsus and his backers to buy the club.

Then at 7.45pm - assuming Mr Haircut plays - England skipper David Beckham and his illustrious set of team-mates will take to the pitch at Gigg Lane in front of a full house with all the proceeds going to the Shakers.

It is going to be a big day and Bury warmed up for it by taking on Third Division Macclesfield Town on Saturday.

The match ended 0-0 but it was not really the football that mattered.

Most heartening was the sight of first team coach Billy Ayre sitting in the stand. Billy has been diagnosed as suffering from cancer and is currently being treated. He looked well and hopefully he will be back at Gigg by Christmas.

On the pitch it was not such a cheery sight. Macclesfield looked fitter and stronger than a Bury side containing new boys Matt Murphy, Gareth Seddon and Michael Nelson.

Paddy Kenny was easily man of the match, making a number of good saves and winning a personal duel with Macc striker Kyle Lightbourne.

After the match Preece confirmed Paul Reid will replace Nick Daws as club captain.

The player was delighted, though a little surprised. "I'm shocked, I never expected this and I am delighted that the manager has that much faith in me. I can't wait for the season to start," he said.

Terry Robinson has revealed that the takeover is going ahead smoothly and he expects no problems.

''It is the belief of the club that the High Court have agreed in full to the offer that has been made," said Robinson. "The club has been given enough assurances that the deal between all parties will reach a successful completion in the very near future.

''The majority shareholding has been up for sale for some two years now and new ownership will give the club renewed impetus to the continuing growth of the club."