THE pre-match Save Our Shakers bucket collections that have been so successful are being shelved for the time being, writes PHIL THORP.

Chairman Terry Robinson is mindful of the fact that it's the same people who are shelling out every week and with two more home matches in the coming few days, reckons it's time for a break.

"We'd like to say a big thank-you to people for their generosity over the past weeks," he explained. "The response has been fantastic and vital to us."

"But we realise that at this time of year money can be scarce and it's not fair to keep hitting the same fans for money."

In the latest collection before the Rotherham game on New Year's Day a total of £1300 was raised.

The Shakers' supremo also paid tribute to the supporters who turned up on Sunday morning to help clear the snow from the Gigg Lane pitch, ensuring that the match went ahead.

"More than 100 turned up to clear the snow after we appealed for help in the Bury Times and the response was absolutely magnificent!" said Mr Robinson.